This content was originally published in January 2000. For the latest in HR management, visit our archives or try our online compliance portal, HR.BLR.com.
Catch an employee who steals, and you’ll find a person who is not very frightened at being caught. Why not? Most of these employees are convinced that the company will not prosecute them.
In fact, their only risk is loss of their jobs. Most industrial thieves don’t feel too threatened by legal retribution. Why don’t companies follow through with prosecution? Many do not want the unfavorable publicity resulting if one of their employees were sent to jail.
However, the high cost of dishonesty is making some companies change their tune. Company policies now may include strong words on what action might be taken if a worker is caught with the goods.
Here is one corporate policy that can be adapted to your workplace:
“Any employee found stealing or attempting to steal, company money or property—whether by wrongfully taking it or by fraud or embezzlement—will be subject to immediate appropriate disciplinary action including termination of employment.
“The company will be the sole judge of the sufficiency of the evidence in these cases. Where the evidence so warrants, the company will also bring the matter to the attention of appropriate law enforcement agencies.”
Don’t keep this hard-line approach hidden. Make sure the consequences of stealing are highly publicized throughout the company on bulletin boards, and in newsletters, and handbooks.