Ethical Dilemma Case Study

Everyone in this world has experienced an ethical dilemma in different situations and this may arise between one or more individuals. Ethical dilemma is a situation where people have to make complex decisions and are influenced based on personal interest, social environment or norms, and religious beliefs (“Strategic Leadership”, n.d.). The leaders and managers in the company should set guidelines to ensure employees are aware and have a better chance to solve and make ethical decisions. Employees are also responsible in understanding their ethical obligations in order to maintain a positive work environment. The purpose of this case study is to identify the dilemma and analyze different decisions to find ways on how a person should act
According to the scenario, Jacob and Krystal worked in an ad agency that started five years ago in Topeka, Kansas. The ad agency was barely making a profit and needed a large client, which led the agency to put in a bid for a city government contract. Due to Jacob’s son being sick, he was preoccupied with taking care of his son and left Krystal with most of the work. Krystal prepared the presentation and got with Jacob the day before the final meeting with the client. Krystal knew that Jacob has good speaking skills and they both decided that Jacob would do the presentation. Jacob’s presentation was a success and they successfully sealed the contract. The owners of the company were so impressed and gave Jacob a bonus check of $10,000. Jacob saw this opportunity where he could use the money for his son’s medical bills. However, he knew that Krystal did most of the work and deserved the bonus money. Jacob is disappointed and his situation has left him with a decision on what to do with the money. This case study will pinpoint Jacob’s ethical dilemma and what ethical action he should take. Also, the roles and responsibilities of an employee dealing with an ethical situation as well as the ways of an organization to maintain ethical practices in the workplace
With Jacob’s financial pressure, his integrity is shaken because he wants to use the money to pay off the bills and Jacob did not mention it to Krystal. Jacob needs to put his personal matter aside and communicate his medical situation and the bonus money to Krystal. By doing so, Jacob will maintain his honesty and not let his personal interest be in the way resulting trust within the workplace will be maintained. Additionally, the bonus money can be fairly divided between the two. Employees have the responsibility to follow and maintain business ethics and the code of ethics in the workplace. Employees have to be honest, communicate at all levels of the organization, deal issues at the lowest possible level, and avoid conflict of interest that would lead to unethical decisions. Also, employees should be educated with the policy and regulations set by the company in order to maintain ethical practices in the workplace. Jacob and employees in general are bombarded by ethical issues and by abiding by their roles and responsibilities will guide them in making an ethical decision. The following five-step model can help employees make appropriate decisions when faced with an ethical dilemma. First step is to recognize the issue. Knowing what is the root cause and the main