Being ethical in an unethical world

In a world blinded by wealth and associated power and fame, ethics are often neglected. Performance by any means pays; ethics rarely pay! Young professionals face the dilemma of maintaining ethics in such an environment. With 30 years of experience, I explore the context of unethical behaviour and offer suggestions for your reflection and personal choice.

Let us begin with the simpler aspect of "voluntary" unethical behaviours like tax evasion, bank loan manipulation, misrepresenting accounts, violation of laws and procurement irregularities -- choices no one forces you to make.

Ethical lapses start gradually with small temptations and compromises and then snowball. It mostly happens through a subtle process of unreasonable targets coupled with lucrative rewards. Hectic work schedule, "everyone does it", "the boss said so", fear, prioritisation of career advancement and unclear regulations add fuel to the fire.

Unscrupulous individuals use ethical mistakes against you like a lever. They won't stop at one request. They will keep coming back, expecting your participation in their dubious activities. So, even if being ethical is not trendy, it is worth it.

Also beware of false reassurances from masterminds, who scapegoat front-liners. The corporate world is replete with junior employees pressured by seniors to engage in misconduct leading to disciplinary and legal consequences.

As such, dealing with unethical requests requires careful planning, courage and tact. There are two strategies: proactive prevention of unethical requests and reactive rejection of unethical requests.

PROACTIVE PREVENTION

Choose your cohorts, role models and job wisely to protect your values. Deliver results by improving your expertise while integrating ethics into decision-making to become invaluable and make it difficult for bosses to target you.

Promote transparency in organisations through open communication, clear practices and a safe environment for raising concerns and seeking advice. Implement checks and balances to guard against wrongdoing.

Align ambition with organisational culture and personal values. Be cautious of recklessness. Many talented professionals fail at higher levels due to unchecked recklessness. Define personal "red lines" you will never cross.

Display easily visible moral symbols to communicate your ethics and deter unethical requests from bosses. I have found sending early signals via subtle comments, behaviours, etc -- especially during interviews -- can protect you as an "ethical amulet".

Have an open dialogue with bosses in terms of invoking their better angels and expressing concerns.

REACTIVE REJECTION

Assess the context and consequences of an unethical request. Diplomatically explain and clarify concerns, explore ethical alternatives and collaborate with your boss on solutions.

If necessary, gradually rebel to uphold professional integrity. Plan a strategic approach as active non-cooperation may backfire. Be prepared for potential retaliation by updating your resume. Seek advice from confidantes, report internally (if safe) and consider whistleblowing carefully.

If illegal and morally unacceptable requests remain unresolved, leaving the company may eventually become necessary. Maintain discretion, remain steadfast and confidentially search for a new job while still employed.

Standing up against unethical behaviour can be challenging, requiring courage, resolve and sacrifice. But it is vital to prioritise values, integrity and reputation; safeguard career and wellbeing; and avoid disciplinary and legal consequences. Additionally, boards of organisations must undertake actions.

The author is former chairman and managing director of Unilever Bangladesh Ltd