In business, anything goes—except sex
by Miki SaxonSex. The one word guaranteed to get people’s attention. Sex is used, directly or indirectly, to sell almost everything, even marriage; it swirls through all forms of entertainment and is the basis of most celebrity watching and general gossip.
But in the business world, sex is cause for firing, especially in the executive suite—unlike poor performance, financial shenanigans, outright lies and other ethical lapses.
I was reminded of just how blatantly true this while reading an opinion piece by Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, senior associate dean at the Yale School Of Management, and co-author of Firing Back: How Great Leaders Rebound from Career Disasters.
It centers on the firing of BP’s Lord John Browne for his life style choices, whereas his previous ethical failings were ignored—even though people died as a result of them.
Why is it that so many Boards tolerate all kinds of scandals—but are quick to terminate the minute that sex rears its ugly(?) head?
As I once said when this subject came up, you can safely diddle a what, but you’re in big trouble if you diddle a who.
Have a wonderful weekend and, to all those celebrating Mother’s Day, my best wishes to the mom(s) in your life!
