Ethical considerations in leaving a job after one week

Communications Workshop One

Changing Jobs Following a Brief Period of Employment

Opting to take another job only a week after beginning a new job is not illegal, as people a free to come and go as they please. However, there are many consequences that must be considered before a conclusion is reached. Ethical implications, possible alternatives and other solutions should be identified and evaluated prior to taking action.

Professional Integrity

Company X would be extremely displeased of the actions of an employee who quit a job following an employment period of only 5 days. Firms make big investments in new employee's, not only is it costly to train new hires but searching and interviewing and selecting the best candidate takes time and money. Upon departure of the employee, Company X would have to begin the hiring process anew costing the firm additional money and using time that could have been utilized more efficiently on another task. Such a job change would be extremely unprofessional. It would appear that the person is immature, irresponsible, and indecisive among other things. Furthermore, it is highly unlikely that that firm will consider hiring him or her in the future. Additionally, if in the future, the individual meets with former co-workers and former management of Company X, it is likely that he or she will be received well. For example, if the person interviews with a firm in the future, where the interviewer is a former employee of Company X, my previous actions will place a strike against me in the mind of the interviewer.

Alternatives

Before making a decision, it would be wise to discuss the situation with people who the person respects and trusts. Whether it is a friend, a family member or a mentor, as much feedback as possible should be sought in order to make the best decision. If this option is unavailable, there are professional career coaches who specialize in dealing with situations such as this. In exchange for a fee, quality advice could be obtained from a professional. As attractive as a 10% increase of my current salary and a job closer to home may seem, the job at Company Y may still not be the best choice. The main reason why this is such a difficult situation is due to the fact the employee has not been at the job long enough to reap the many benefits it may bring. Additionally, it is not possible to know what to expect at Company Y. The grass may or may not be greener on the other side. Finally, the individual may not feel comfortable if other people find out that he or she quit a job after only a week to move home. Not only will this person be viewed untrustworthy in a professional capacity, but also many will think twice before dealing with the person in other situations.

Recommended Action

The employee should politely decline the job at Company Y. However, the employee should ask that his or her name and resume be kept on file for consideration for future openings. Additionally, the individual should retain a list of contacts for Company Y for possible use at a date in the future. It would be a poor career move for the person to comprise his or her professional integrity. It would be better to forgo the boost in salary and chalk it up to experience.

Memorandum

SUBJECT: Communications Workshop Two

Using a computer for personal reasons at work does not make someone a bad employee. However, a company who has a policy of not allowing their employees to use the computers for personal use is a company who does not value their employees and blatantly ignores the fact that there is more to life than work. Zero-tolerance policies will do more harm than good.

Companies must realize that while an employee is at work, they are forgoing all the activities that require attention between the hours of 9-5 such as banking. An employee who works such hours is not able to accomplish mandatory tasks. We should allow our employees to use the computers for personal use only if it does not interfere with their duties. During lunch, when business is slow, or if an employee needs to get something done immediately, we should not hinder such activities. However, we should not let our business become an "Internet Cafe." We should monitor usage and block porn, music downloads and game sites as none of these things are essential. We should send a memo to employees outlining this policy, to make them aware of what is accepted and what is not. We should not have a problem with abuses of the system; if we hire individuals with high ethical standards they should be able to balance work and Internet usage.

We should value our employees and realize that one does not have to compromise their personal needs and professional tasks, as both can be balanced well. If we deny our employees this benefit, we will definitely have trouble retaining our top staff.

Memorandum

Code of Conduct

This code of conduct applies to all employees and contractors of ABC Grocery Store. By signing this agreement you are agreeing to abide by the rules and ethics set forth and you are expected to uphold such conduct in all facets of business transactions. Any violation of a code is a serious offense and will be dealt with accordingly. This code will address ethical issues that may arise and can be used as a reference to mediate compromising situations

As an employee of ABC Grocery Store you agree to:

Treat customers and co-workers with the utmost respect.

Never taking improper advantage of the trust of any party in order to obtain a benefit monetary or otherwise.

Never use company resources in excess. Using the telephone, fax and other company resources in such a capacity that it prohibits the fulfillment of job duties is excess.

Never take bribes in any amount or any form.

Never tell or show company documents or other internal information to other parties.

Furthermore, you agree not to take company property off premises for personal use unless instructed to do so by management. Avoid taking company merchandise or products with paying, regardless of the monetary value of the good. Employee discounts are for use of that employee only. Do not purchase items for others and use the employee discount. Stealing from the cash register, the cash box or any other place where cash is held will result in immediate termination.

Discrimination in any form is not permitted by employees toward other employees or by employees towards our customers, suppliers or vendors. Discrimination will not be tolerated by customers against ABC Groceries employee's customers, suppliers or vendors. Prejudice against someone because of his or her gender, sexual orientation, religion, race, creed or national origin is discrimination and is strictly prohibited.

Sexual harassment is also strictly forbidden. Sexual harassment is the unwanted advancement or pursuit of one person to another person that mocks, embarrasses or puts another in a compromising position. Pictures, words, touch and use of facial expressions in an inappropriate manner is sexual harassment. Superiors are advised against dating subordinates, a superior cannot use his or her position as leverage to intimidate subordinate into complying with his or her wishes. Sexual harassment towards customers, suppliers, vendors or anyone on company premises is also strictly prohibited.

Employees are expected to carry out professional integrity at all times. The use of profanity (in any language) and offensive gestures is prohibited. Employees are expected to dress in a professional manner according to the dress code that is set forth. There is no excuse for improper grooming.

As we will not tolerate disrespect on the part of our employees, it will also not be tolerated from anyone conducting business with ABC Grocery. Please contact management if you feel you rights and personal space has been violated.