Ethical Issues and Problems in Business and the Corporate World: Sexual Harassment Essay

Strike, Inc. is a well known company in the field of Information Technology (IT). It has been the main and primary producer of educational software and business operational progress like database filing, computerized payroll system, and hardware designed swipe machine and bar code system. Jeffrey Jacobs, the manager, has been working for the company for almost 25 years. His expertise in system application and development made him the best and the most competent in the managerial position. He is aggressive and hardworking but at times unpredictable and bossy.

His personal attachment and close professional interaction with female employees of the company have been noticed by many. One day, Bernadette Ryan, the head of the system developers, went to Jeffrey’s office for product consultation. The meeting went on and Jeffrey’s comment about the new project is its marketability and user-friendly functionality. Bernadette, on the other hand, continued to explain the advantages of the system when Jeffrey stood up and approached the door.

She just continued discussing the features of the new system being developed.

Without her knowing it Jeffrey suddenly appeared at her back, sort of listening to her discussion. Jeffrey started to make sleek moves; he intentionally put his hands, touched and sort of massaged Bernadette’s shoulders. Bernadette was surprised about the actions of her boss. She stood up and said, “I’d rather go. ” As she was walking her way out of the room, Jeffrey got hold of her arms and said, “I know you like what I’m doing.

Come on, try me! ” Bernadette felt that she was being harassed and exclaimed, “Stop or I’ll scream! This is sexual harassment! ” Jeffrey felt more aggressive and told Bernadette that being the manager, he has the right to be the boss and handle his subordinates his own way. Jeffrey further imposed that if she would not submit herself to his personal aggression, he would tell other employees about the incident. Moreover, he would definitely fire her and tell everyone that it was Bernadette who did the first move of flirting. Bernadette was shocked. She ran out of the door to get out of Jeffrey’s malicious and questionable disposition.