How to Deal With a Moral Dilemma at My Job

Your job may force you to choose between ethics and success.

Over the course of your career, it is likely you will have to face a few moral dilemmas. Some business models proposed by your company may strike you as unfair or predatory, or you may be asked to participate on a project that goes against your moral code. Dealing with a moral dilemma is certainly difficult, as you may have to choose between keeping your current job and maintaining your ethical beliefs. If you do find yourself faced with a moral dilemma over the course of your work, it is important to address it as soon as possible.

Instructions

1. Think about why you are experiencing a moral dilemma with the issue at hand. Make a short list of the reasons you believe the current project violates your ethical standards. It is important to have specifics before you try addressing the issue.

2. Bring your concerns to your manager. Explain why you are morally opposed to the idea in question and ask if you can get a deeper explanation of the intent of the project.

3. Listen to your manager’s explanation of the project. An idea that poses a moral dilemma may seem much more reasonable once you understand the motivations behind it, or may turn out to be just as sinister as you imagined.

4. Weigh the potential benefits of the dilemma, for example, a promotion or raise, with the way you would feel after violating your moral code. You should also recognize the possibility that a company that constantly violates your moral code may not be the best place for you to work.

5. Make a decision either to overlook your morals for the sake of career progress or to stand up for your ethics at the possible cost of your job. This is a difficult situation and you will need to do what you feel is best for you in the long term.

References

• Harvard Business School: The Moral Dilemmas of Young Professionals
• Oprah.com: The Uh-Oh Feeling: Sticky Situations at Work