Types of Unethical Behaviour in the Workplace

TYPES OF UNETHICAL BEHAVIOUR IN THE WORKPLACE

The practice of unethical behaviour in the workplace is detrimental to the existence of any organization. An organization's reputation, profitability and clientèle can suffer tremendously. As a result, many organizations have written codes of conduct and ethics which outlines accepted standards of professional conduct. However, unethical behaviour in the workplace is still present. Poor etiquette, non-adherence to company policies, deliberate deception and illegal acts are categorized into types of unethical behaviour in the workplace.

Poor etiquette is classified as a type of unethical behaviour in the workplace. It defines the level of professionalism of an individual and to some extent their character. Examples of poor etiquette in the workplace are poor communication styles and improper dress code. Poor or ineffective communication creates strained relationships among individuals. Communicating with someone in a discourteous tone is a sign of poor etiquette; shouting to get an employee’s attention down the hallway is also a sign of poor etiquette. Individuals who wear unsuitable work attire and are dressed inappropriately for the workplace are perceived as disrespecting the dress code of the company and as such, poor etiquette is reflected on their part. “One should know when to choose traditional business attire for the occasion.” (Sabath, 55). Poor etiquette is a major contributor to the levels of stress experienced in the workplace as it mirrors unethical behaviour.

Types of unethical behaviour in the workplace are classed as non-adherence to company policies. Company policies provide a framework for procedural operations of an organization. In some cases, non-adherence to these policies could be consequential. Some examples of non-adherence to company policies are disregard for health and safety and non-compliance to discrimination policies. Health and safety in the workplace is a...