Here is a great question from an EntreLeadership Podcast listener:

I work in a chiropractor’s office. One of the up-and-coming chiropractors has done some really unethical things with some checks and cash that were in his possession. Some of these are actually illegal, and he could be prosecuted for what he has done. He has been spoken to about the issues, but still continues to lie about circumstances surrounding these checks. After listening/reading Dave’s materials, it is my opinion that this young man should be given the proverbial “box,” escorted out the door and released from his position. However, I am not sure the owner of the practice is going to let him go.

My question for you is concerning my course of action if, in fact, the owner does not fire this guy. I am part of the management team and have a real problem working with a liar/stealer/deceiver. I understand the owner has every right to make whatever decision he feels is best for his company. However, I am very uncomfortable working with this type of person and in an environment that allows this type of person to stay on the team. What is the right thing for me to do if this staff member is allowed to stay on the team? I appreciate your input!

For me, there’s only one answer: Do what you believe to be morally correct. If the owner refuses to let him go, then you have two people with integrity issues. Yes, you hate working around someone who is stealing, but it’s almost worse to be working for someone who is sanctioning that kind of incompetence.

Not only is the owner’s head in the sand as far as what kind of effect this is having on his business, but he also doesn’t realize how it’s affecting his team. Sanctioned incompetence demoralizes, as we can see by this question. Am I saying that other companies don’t have issues? Of course not. But allowing someone to do something illegal is beyond ridiculous.

Champions won’t stay in that environment long, if at all. Find a place that values both the customer and the team, and work there. Only you know if you can and are willing make a quick transition or not.

Question: What would you do if you were in this situation?