Work Ethics and the Workplace | PAPER II – PRINCIPLES & PRACTICES OF BANKING | MODULE D: ETHICS IN BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Ethical Dimensions: Work Ethics and the Workplace
1. What Is Work Ethics?
Work ethics refer to a set of moral principles and values an individual applies in their job performance. It includes traits like honesty, punctuality, responsibility, and accountability.
Example: An employee who consistently meets deadlines, avoids gossip, and reports accurately demonstrates strong work ethics.
2. Something Bigger Than the Self
Work ethics often require individuals to think beyond personal gains and contribute positively to the organization's objectives and societal welfare. This approach aligns with stakeholder theory in ethics.
3. Ethical Behaviour at the Workplace: Benefits
- Improves employee morale and job satisfaction
- Reduces legal risks and compliance issues
- Enhances brand reputation and public trust
- Encourages teamwork and mutual respect
4. Recognising Ethical Workplaces
Ethical workplaces show transparency, open communication, and respect for all stakeholders. Companies like TATA and Infosys are often cited as examples of ethical corporate culture in India.
5. Unethical Behaviours: Causes and Remedies
Common Causes:
- Pressure to meet targets
- Lack of clear policies
- Poor leadership example
Remedies:
- Ethics training and awareness
- Clear code of conduct
- Whistleblower protection mechanisms
6. Conducting Personal Business During Office Time
This is a common ethical lapse. Using company resources for personal gain without permission is considered misuse and affects productivity.
Illustration (Mathematical): If 1 employee wastes 30 mins/day for personal tasks, in 22 working days = 30 × 22 = 660 minutes or 11 hours/month lost productivity.
7. Taking Credit for Others’ Work
This unethical practice damages teamwork, creates mistrust, and may violate intellectual property norms within organizations.
8. Ethical Lapses and Organizational Culture
When leadership tolerates small unethical acts, it can snowball into larger misconducts. A culture of integrity must be modeled from the top down.
9. Ethics of a Banker
Bankers deal with sensitive financial data and public funds. Their ethical responsibilities include confidentiality, transparency, diligence, and fiduciary care.
10. Whistleblowing in Banks
Whistleblowing refers to reporting unethical or illegal activities in an organization. It is a vital check mechanism, especially in the banking sector.
11. Whistleblowing Law in India
The Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 provides a legal framework for protection of whistleblowers exposing corruption in government or public sectors.
12. Managers as Ethical Leaders
Managers must lead by example, promoting integrity, fairness, and responsibility. Ethical leadership helps build trust and a sustainable corporate culture.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
-
Which of the following is NOT a trait of strong work ethics?
A. Accountability
B. Dishonesty
C. Responsibility
D. Punctuality
Answer: B. Dishonesty -
What is the term for using office time for personal gain?
A. Efficiency
B. Productivity Boosting
C. Misuse of Resources
D. Work Optimization
Answer: C. Misuse of Resources -
Whistle Blowers Protection Act was passed in which year?
A. 2010
B. 2012
C. 2014
D. 2016
Answer: C. 2014 -
Which of the following is a benefit of ethical behavior at workplace?
A. Employee demotivation
B. Reduced team spirit
C. Legal risks
D. Improved morale
Answer: D. Improved morale -
Taking credit for others’ work may violate:
A. Tax Laws
B. Labour Rights
C. Intellectual Property Norms
D. Foreign Exchange Rules
Answer: C. Intellectual Property Norms -
Which of these is a key ethical trait expected from bankers?
A. Aggressiveness
B. Confidentiality
C. Arrogance
D. Manipulativeness
Answer: B. Confidentiality -
Ethical leadership promotes which of the following?
A. Nepotism
B. Trust and Fairness
C. Bias
D. Exploitation
Answer: B. Trust and Fairness -
What causes unethical behavior in the workplace?
A. Clear policies
B. Leadership integrity
C. Ambiguity in rules
D. Ethical culture
Answer: C. Ambiguity in rules -
Work ethics involve:
A. Misleading practices
B. Legal loopholes
C. Responsibility and Honesty
D. Emotional manipulation
Answer: C. Responsibility and Honesty -
Which of the following is a correct mathematical example of productivity loss?
A. 5 mins/day × 10 days = 50 seconds
B. 30 mins/day × 22 days = 660 mins
C. 1 hour/day × 5 days = 25 mins
D. 10 mins/day × 30 days = 200 hours
Answer: B. 30 mins/day × 22 days = 660 mins
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