The Electronic Accountant

August 13, 1999

MAJORITY OF WORKERS WILLING TO STEAL FROM THEIR EMPLOYER

Although employee loyalty is what every manager strives for, loyalty may, in fact, be a tip off to a more serious internal problem.

A large majority of employees would steal from their employer if given the opportunity according to a study conducted by an international investigative and forensic accounting firm.

The survey of over 500 employees, conducted by Michael G. Kessler & Associates, claims that only 21 percent of employees are basically honest and will never steal. Personnel who would steal from their employers include 66 percent who will steal if they see others doing so without repercussion.

The study surveyed workers from the blue-collar sector to the corporate boardroom. It also suggests ways in which employers can help eliminate employee theft and tips on how to spot potential criminals in the workplace.