Professional Competence and Ethical Competence

 As the executive director of a growing Infotech company, you have seen remarkable contributions from Ramesh, the head of the marketing team. In just a year, he has doubled the company's revenue and significantly enhanced the brand's reputation. Recognizing his efficiency, you are considering promoting him. However, you have received complaints that Ramesh habitually makes inappropriate jokes about women and sends offensive SMS messages to some female team members.

One day, Mrs. X, a member of Ramesh's team, comes to you deeply distressed, alleging that Ramesh tried to touch her inappropriately. She informs you that she is considering resigning.

•         What are the options available to you to deal with such a situation?

•         Evaluate each option.

•         Describe the most ethical way to deal with the above situation.

 

A value of objectivity is necessary to deal with this situation appropriately. Objectivity means making decisions based on facts and facts. Employees working in a company should have not only professional competence but also moral competence.

Stakeholders

• Myself as the Executive Director
• Ramesh (Head of Marketing)
• Mrs. X (Complainant)
• Other Team Members
• The Company
• Shareholders/Investors

Options available

1.      Accepting the resignation of Mrs. X and Not taking any action against Ramesh.

2.      Giving a warning to Ramesh and asking Mrs. X to forgive Ramesh.

3.      Taking written complaint from Mrs. X and taking appropriate action as per the law of the land.

Evaluating the Options:

1.      Accept Mrs. X’s Resignation Without Taking Action Against Ramesh:

• Advantages:
• Immediate resolution of the problem.
• Avoids public exposure of internal conflicts.
• Retains a key employee.
• Disadvantages:
• Denies justice to the victim.
• Sends the wrong message that such behavior is tolerated.
• Deteriorates the company’s work environment.
• Increases the likelihood of future incidents.

2.      Warn Ramesh and Ask Mrs. X to Forgive Him:

• Advantages:
• Gives Ramesh a chance to recognize and correct his behavior.
• Retains a key employee.
• Disadvantages:
• Does not address the root cause of the problem.
• Increases the likelihood of future incidents.
• Puts additional pressure on Mrs. X.

3.      Obtain a Written Complaint from Mrs. X and Take Legal Action:

• Advantages:
• Provides justice to the victim.
• Creates a safe and respectful work environment.
• Prevents future incidents.
• Demonstrates the company’s commitment to legal compliance.
• Disadvantages:
• Risk of losing a key employee.
• Potential public exposure of internal conflicts.

The Most Ethical Approach:

The most ethical approach is to obtain a written complaint from Mrs. X and initiate a thorough investigation based on the principles outlined in the 2013 Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act (POSH). This ensures priority is given to the well-being of Mrs. X and other employees, guarantees compliance with legal standards, and upholds the company’s values of integrity and justice. Decisive action against harassment and inappropriate behavior is crucial for maintaining a positive work culture and protecting the company's reputation in the long term.