Case Study 1- Conflict on a Trading Floor PDF

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Analysis of Harvard Case Study Trading on a Trading Floor...

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Pola Hannan Kuri Phk262 February 08, 2019 Case 1: Conflict on a Trading Floor 1. What are the stakes for the protagonist in “Conflict on a Trading Floor”? Personally, I would not like to be in a situation like this in the future, especially considering how high the stakes were for making the wrong decision. One of the many outcomes of the protagonist not complying with Linda’s orders would be him losing his job for failing to follow directions from his supervisors. Considering Linda was clear and direct about what she needed from him, this would be a possible result. Another possible outcome would be losing the profitable transaction that would benefit not only Linda and himself, but also the bank as a whole by increasing earnings at an “extremely difficult time”. On the other hand, a negative outcome of doing what he is being told would be him compromising his integrity for the job. The protagonist believes he has an obligation to be honest because he believes that honesty is a “crucial building block for an enjoyable and happy world”. He also believes he should not lie since it goes strongly against his Jewish religious beliefs. Furthermore, deceiving Poseidon would besmirch his professional reputation, since it is expected for him to act in the client’s best interest. Considering these high stakes, it is clear that this is not an easy decision to make. 2. What options are available? The protagonist of this case has a couple choices he can make to handle this situation. First, he could blow the whistle and tell on Linda to the Senior Vice-President of the bank. Although this can be extremely intimidating to do, it would take the responsibility off his shoulders, and even gives him the opportunity to impress one of the most important people in the company. On the other hand, the protagonist could simply do what he is being told and enjoy the monetary benefits if successful. Another option would be being a by-stander like Roger, and not help Linda without telling on her, which could really damage the relationship between him and his boss, Linda. He could also speak directly to Poseidon and explaining the situation, although this will most likely end up in him getting fired from his current job. Lastly, the protagonist could also quit altogether. 3. Which would you choose? Why? While reading Conflict on a Trading Floor, I was captivated at how the case was unfolding. I could feel what the author was describing and found myself placing myself in the author’s shoes multiple times wondering what I would do, and how I would personally manage the situation. I believe that in this case I would have decided to speak directly with the Senior-Vice President of FirstAmerica Bank. Although it is highly intimidating to do, especially after having only seen him once before, I believe this is the right choice. Speaking to the Senior Vice-President will allow the protagonist to take the responsibility off his shoulders and giving it to the Senior Vice-President. After doing this, two things may happen: 1) The protagonist may make a great impression to one of the most important people in the bank, possibly opening doors for him in the future, or 2) The protagonist might get fired from this position for not matching the ethics of the company. Meaning that if Linda is that way, it is possible that the Senior Vice-President

is too and that’s how he climbed up to his position. Regardless, both results would be positive, and the protagonist will be able to work at a better place....