Susan faces not only an ethical crisis, but also a decision that could impact her internship and career. Though contradictory on whether she should carry out the task and how to bring up the topic to superiors, the advice she receives places her best interests at the core—to protect her reputation as a young professional.
In accepting an ethically dubious task from her superior, Susan risks committing a wrongful or illegal act; if caught, she may face legal repercussions and could damage her career prospects by having an unethical past. On the other hand, landing an internship, particularly in today’s competitive job market, is challenging. To alienate her boss by speaking up against this task can stifle her professional growth (not to mention the financial implications of turning down a job offer while facing Bay Area living expenses).
The three-step plan from “How to Speak Up When It Matters” can provide a helpful path forward. Though conversations with her father and mentor seem to simplify the matter, she should recognize the decision to speak up to her boss is not straightforward. To reduce the pressure of that conversation with Mr. Moon, Susan can bring up the topic in a less formal or attacking way. For instance, rather than replying on the email chain with Mr. Moon’s colleagues present, she can set up an informal call to discuss her concerns and have an open conversation about Mr. Moon’s expectations and his rationales for this research approach. In that open conversation, Susan and Mr. Moon can collaborate and brainstorm alternatives that accomplish the same task without the risks that misrepresenting herself poses. This sets Susan up with a plan that avoids an ethically dubious situation and positions Mr. Moon as a partner, rather than a superior Susan is going against.
