Facing Unethical Practices at Work: Should I Speak Up or Walk Away?

Dear Seniors,

I am looking for expert advice. I recently joined an organization as an HR manager. After joining, I learned that some unethical practices and gross violations of laws are occurring in the organization. The owners are aware of it.

What to do in this situation:

1. Should I oppose the same?
2. Quit the job immediately?
3. Search for another job?
4. Do nothing.

This is very common with some organizations in India. It's better if you search for another organization as quickly as possible. Continuing with the organization will unnecessarily create mental agony.

S K Bandyopadhyay (WB, Howrah)
CEO - USD HR Solutions

Dear member,

Unethical business practices, violations of the law, and exploitation of labor occur in many companies. When an organization's values clash with personal values, it causes stress. I empathize with you. In your post, you have created four options and sought advice on the right choice. However, opinions may differ from one person to another due to a potential mismatch between the values of the forum members and yours. What if the members give different types of advice? It could confuse you further.

Recommendations for Each Option

01. Should I oppose the same: Opposing the actions or decisions of the employer is fraught with risk, as resistance from a newly joined employee will not be taken lightly. The employer could terminate you for challenging them.

02. Quit the job immediately: This option is also risky. Quitting a job without having a replacement at hand would be imprudent. While the decision may give you solace for not being a party to the employer's misdemeanors, it will impose a heavy cost on you. Additionally, your status will be unemployed, which could erode your market value and allow future employers to dictate their terms.

03. Search for another job: This option is better than option 02. However, how will you explain the reasons for the short stay? Will the future employer accept your argument? Employers expect employees to adapt to their organization's culture. What if the future employer perceives you as a stubborn person? Furthermore, your short stay could haunt you in all future job searches.

04. Do nothing: Yes, this option can be exercised for at least 1-2 years. Just pass the time. Despite the mismatch in values, you can add value by cultivating your image as a talented, knowledgeable, and meticulous person. Show such dedication that the employer considers you irreplaceable. This will help you gain the trust of your employer. Old habits die hard, and even after earning trust, the employer may not change their ways. But at least the employer will not be dismissive of you.

Personal Feedback

It is good to note that you have approached this forum to seek advice. Sometimes, situations put us on the horns of a dilemma, and we get confused. Your concern about the infringement of values is commendable. However, I recommend demonstrating one more value: introspection. Your post does not match the stature of an HR Manager. There are grammatical mistakes, and spell-check was also neglected. I wish you had invested time in improving your business writing skills. More than being concerned about the employer's values, show concern for your career. If you do not take corrective action to eradicate this weakness, it could hold back your future growth. Whether to live with poor English skills or systematically improve them is a decision you need to make expeditiously!

All the best!

Dinesh Divekar

Apart from the suggestions you listed, I would suggest that you adopt a transformative approach. Now that you are aware of the issues and their potential consequences, you may consider addressing them in a step-by-step manner, starting with the easier ones to persuade the top management. In many cases, management may believe they won't be caught, but you need to make them aware that the day of reckoning is fast approaching. If possible, engaging in a heart-to-heart conversation could help unpack these issues and develop a short-term strategy to achieve full compliance and ethical standards. Ultimately, as previously advised by a senior member, it is not recommended to depart from the organization hastily.

Hi,
Dealing with unethical practices and violations of laws within an organization can be challenging, but it's crucial to address them appropriately. Here's how you could approach this situation:

Assess the Situation
Before taking any action, thoroughly assess the extent of the unethical practices and violations. Understand the implications, who is involved, and the potential consequences.

Understand the Company Culture
Evaluate the company culture to determine if this behavior is systemic or if it's isolated to a few individuals. This understanding will help you strategize your approach.

Consider Your Values
Reflect on your own values and principles. If these practices conflict with your ethical standards, you may feel compelled to take action.

Document Everything
Keep detailed records of any unethical behavior or violations you observe. This documentation will be essential if you decide to escalate the issue.

Engage in Dialogue
Try to address the issue internally first. Approach your superiors or the relevant department heads to discuss your concerns. Provide evidence and suggest solutions to rectify the situation.

Escalate if Necessary
If your initial attempts to address the issue internally are unsuccessful, consider escalating the matter to higher authorities within the organization or to external regulatory bodies.

Protect Yourself
While addressing unethical behavior, ensure you protect yourself from any potential retaliation. Document your actions and conversations, and consider seeking legal advice if necessary.

Evaluate Your Options
Depending on the response from the organization and your comfort level with the situation, you may need to consider your options, which could include resigning from your position or seeking alternative employment.

Ultimately, the decision to oppose the unethical practices, quit your job, or search for another job depends on your personal values, the severity of the situation, and your ability to effect change within the organization. It's essential to weigh your options carefully and take action that aligns with your principles.

Thanks

You have the option of expressing your concerns within the hierarchy, especially if your organization happens to be in the public sector. However, such attempts call for much courage, conviction, as well as tact.

It's inappropriate for me to recommend any option without knowing what is happening in your organization. If possible, can you mention what exactly is happening there (without revealing the name of your organization) so that it may be easier for us to consider the impact of all those unethical and unlawful activities?

In my opinion, change is the only solution. Either you change the malpractices in the existing company or change the job to avoid unnecessary stress.