Tell me about an ethical dilemma you faced in the workplace and how you handled it.
"In school, I realized there was an error with the grading system, and I received perfect scores prior to submitting the assignment. I could have kept quiet and continued to receive those grades for work I didn't complete, but I knew that was not the right thing to do. I made my professor aware, and he thanked me for my honesty because it appeared that the error was widespread and happening to several other students."
"When I worked in the office at my last job, we had a strict policy against taking office supplies. I had a coworker who took home several items like paper, printer ink, staples, etc. I reminded her that the company that a strict policy regarding taking home office supplies, which could result in a write-up or termination. She put the items back, but I witnessed her doing the same thing a week later. I notified my manager of the situation, including the first time that I reminded her that it was against company policy. It's never an ideal situation to turn in a fellow coworker, but it's important to speak up and do that right thing, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable."
"I once had a manager that would berate other employees, and, on several occasions, I witnessed them cursing and yelling at my coworkers. It was a tough situation because normally, I would confront the person I believed was acting inappropriately. However, I was afraid of retaliation. It just so happened that our company's annual code of conduct training came out, and it listed specific steps for reporting this type of behavior. I was able to report the incidents to the corporate employee line anonymously, which allowed me to speak up without fear of my personal information being shared and my manager retaliating against me. After investigating the matter, the company took swift action, and I felt assured that I did the right thing by speaking up for others."
Integrity is listed as one of ADP's core values. This question allows the interviewer to discover more about your character. It's not uncommon for ethical dilemmas in the workplace to come up from time to time, so speak openly about any relevant experiences you've had. Think carefully about your answer, as it will leave a strong impression.
Demonstrate your ability to follow a company policy for this type of issue and your commitment to honesty, integrity, and loyalty to your organization. Show examples of how you've "done the right thing," even when it may have cost you personally or professionally. Demonstrate how you bring honesty and fairness to the team and how you have been a good role model to others.
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