What action should be taken by Aflac employees when uncertain about an ethical dilemma?

When faced with an ethical dilemma, Aflac employees should seek guidance from the Aflac Ethics Officer. This action ensures they receive informed, expert support tailored to the company's values and ethical standards. The Ethics Officer is trained to handle complex situations and can provide insight on how to navigate dilemmas in a way that aligns with Aflac's commitment to integrity and ethical behavior. This promotes a culture of open communication and accountability, which is critical in maintaining trust and ethical conduct within the organization.

Consulting with colleagues can be helpful in many scenarios; however, it may not always yield the most informed or appropriate guidance, especially if those colleagues lack experience or knowledge in handling ethical issues. Making a decision independently without consultation could lead to actions that are misaligned with company policy or ethical standards, potentially causing harm or confusion. Ignoring the dilemma altogether is counterproductive and could lead to unresolved issues that may escalate over time. Therefore, seeking guidance from the Ethics Officer is the most responsible and effective course of action in unclear situations.