Question

Using the textbook and your own past experiences, what do you communicate to your immediate supervisor and when/if to jump the chain of command – and under what circumstances? How does this topic fit into public ethics?

Answer 1

The chain of command is always a key step in developing respect and trust with boss (immediate manager or supervisor). At the same time, supervisor ensures that their subordinate should be more productive and happy. It is recommended to deviate from the chain of command in case of any ethical issues or cases of harassment, but it is required that the supervisor should be well informed about the job-related concerns. If still the issues are not resolved, then it is important to skip the chain of command by making sure that the entire scenario is documented (as an evidence) while communicating. The chain of command offers a structured or ordered way to resolve issue at workplace and at the same time develop respect for supervisor and higher ups.

For example, during the initial days of motherhood, I had some personal health issues and wanted to have work from option for some time. I discussed with my immediate supervisor, but he was unable to provide approval on my request as that time there was no Work from home policy and only can be availed at the discretion of the business head. After the discussion with my supervisor, I approached to check with the Business Head. With the help of my supervisor I scheduled meeting with the business head. I met with him and explained the issue. After all the consideration, I received approval to work from home.

So, the conclusion here is the chain of command is good and important in business. It allows higher authorities to identify who should be accountable for any type of issues. At the same, if an employee is getting abused by the immediate supervisor then the employee has all the rights to break the chain of command to get the justice.

The chain of command comes under the public ethics when any type of inequality is promoted, based on the technical aspects any kind of irrational decisions rather than community requirements.