Workplace Etiquette | Misconduct

(Picture Source above: screenshot Google)

What prompted this post? I recently came across an article about Albany State University Financial Aid department had a recent audit and found misconduct on behave of several employees. The President was swift in his actions to correct this action. But what impressed more was that he owned up to the misconduct that was found under his watch. Most would not have done so.

Misconduct is defined as the deliberate violation of a law or standard; and or the improper behavior. Hence...."mis" (off the mark) on "conduct" (behavior). Misconduct is growing within many workplaces. According to the National Business Ethics Survey (NBES) 2013, 43% of employees survey observed misconduct within their organizations.  Most misconduct observed was among managers. Of those observing the misconduct, 63% said that they did report it to upper management. And 21% were retaliated against by their employer which according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission were 38,000 cases of retaliation by an employers nation-wide.

By the way, did you know that the Department of Labor use the act of "misconduct" to determine whether an employee will receive unemployment benefits. There are three types of misconduct: simple, severe and gross.  A simple misconduct disqualification (i.e. insubordination, lateness or absences with no written warnings from your employer) There are three types of misconduct: simple, severe and gross.  A simple misconduct disqualification (i.e. insubordination, lateness or absences with no written warnings from your employer). Severe and gross misconduct must show the following;

• Intentional violation of company of policy
• Deliberate disregard of the employer interests, and
• At least one prior warning for misconduct was issued

Misconduct is about a person's character.There are three types of misconduct: simple, severe and gross.  A simple misconduct disqualification (i.e. insubordination, lateness or absences with no written warnings from your employer)It is a condition of the heart. The bible tells us,... there are six things the Lord hates—no, seven: haughtiness, lying, murdering, plotting evil, eagerness to do wrong, a false witness, sowing discord among brothers (Proverbs 6:16-18). Misconduct is the act of sin.

Employees, if you find that you have committed acts of misconduct. Repent to the father. Confess your sins (to Jesus and your employer). Yes...to your employer. Own your misdeed. Ask God for his grace and mercy and help in renewing your heart to not sin against the Spirit. Employers, if you find that you are in violation of misconduct. Do not retaliate against employees who bring it to light. Own your misdeed. Correct your actions. Be accountable for the consequences that will come. Yes...employers (owner-executives) can commit acts of sin too. Yes, all have sinned; all fall short of God’s glorious ideal;...(Roman 3:23).

And forgive our sins—for we have forgiven those who sinned against us. And don’t allow us to be tempted.” (Luke 11:4)