People Share 41 Dark Secrets Of Famous Companies And Risk Ruining Their Reputations

When working for a company, you gain experience, salary, and insight into its operations. While it's an exciting start in a new workplace, it can also be challenging because you may find out something that conflicts with your moral judgments.

Unfortunately, most companies have their dark secrets, which is probably why you have to sign a privacy policy agreement before you even start working for them. However, if you ever witness something irregular while working for them, you can't publicly talk about it, or it will violate a privacy policy agreement.

There are procedures for solving such problems, and you must respect them. But thanks to the Reddit community, you can ease your soul and share all the secrets that have been bothering you.

Recently, two Reddit threads offered people a chance to speak openly about companies' dark secrets, and guess what - people embraced them. One thread invited users to share company secrets that could destroy their reputation, while another questioned individuals to reveal compromising information about their employers.

Both threads have received an avalanche of surprising responses. Below, we have chosen some of the most scandalous comments for you.

Scroll down and let us know which one has shocked you the most.

1. "Nestlé supports warlords, slavery and other wonderful things in the countries they get cacao from. Oh wait, that isn't exactly a secret, is it?"

jerenept

2. "leave for work looking hot enough to take a selfie"

"A New Zealand-owned burger chain (that I worked at for 6 years during school/college) sent all it's staff out a "Style Manual", to go with it's new uniform. It recommended we wear MAC makeup (which is $60 a bottle over here), and said, quote: "leave for work looking hot enough to take a selfie #burgerfuel #makeup #hot #selfie".

They introduced short shorts, which only went up to size 10, so a chubby girl at my work was reduced to tears having to wear men's shorts. As a manager, I deliberately walked in looking like utter c**p and refusing to wear their precious shorts (my boss bought them a size too small on purpose so everyone's asses were hanging out).

I let everyone on my shift wear what they wanted until the day I left. We didn't get paid enough to be patty-flipping strippers. What the flipping f**k."

anon

3. "That PETA actually kills animals. I'm pretty sure 10% of the people that know about PETA know this."

anon

The psychological concept of cognitive dissonance plays a crucial role in how employees perceive unethical behavior in their companies. When individuals witness actions that conflict with their moral beliefs, they often experience discomfort, leading to rationalization or disengagement.

According to research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, individuals may downplay unethical actions to maintain their self-image. This can create a barrier to whistleblowing, ultimately allowing harmful practices to persist.

Corporate Secrecy and Ethical Implications

Dr. Michael Johnson, an ethics professor at Harvard Business School, discusses the implications of corporate secrets on public trust.

His research indicates that when companies conceal unethical practices, it can lead to a significant erosion of consumer trust and loyalty.

This mistrust can have lasting impacts on brand reputation and financial performance.

4. "Breast Cancer awareness products"

"So you would think that all of those products that are plastered in pink would have to give money to cancer research. Well if it says "breast cancer awareness" they actually don't have to.

The claim is that they are *raising awareness* which is why they are pink. Intentionally misleading though."

anon

5. “Work will set you free”

"I'm not sure if vile is the right description, more like ignorance. I worked at a large electronic retail chain, and on top of the storage door frame was a sign that reads “work will set you free”.

Google that phrase if you do not recognise its source."

Gnodgnod

6. Coca Cola

"In the 1970s, a Coca-Cola franchised bottling plant in Guatemala suffered a spate of mysterious murders of union-affiliated employees ...To date, there have been a total of 179 major human rights violations of Coca-Cola's workers, including 9 murders.

Family members of union activists have been abducted and tortured. Coca-Cola has been accused of bribing the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).

In 2003 Coca-Cola donated $1 million to the AAPD. Later that year the AAPD stated that "scientific evidence is certainly not clear on the exact role that soft drinks play in terms of children's oral disease", directly contradicting their previous statements such as "consumption of sugars in any beverage can be a significant factor…that contributes to the initiation and progression of dental caries."

Critics have stated it certainly appears that Coca-Cola has "paid dentists to stop saying kids shouldn't drink Coke". It just goes on and on.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Coca-Cola"

anon

The Role of Company Culture

Research indicates that company culture significantly influences employee behavior regarding ethical dilemmas. A study by Dr. Amy Edmondson at Harvard Business School emphasizes that a psychologically safe environment encourages open dialogue about unethical practices.

This safety allows employees to voice concerns without fear of retribution, fostering a culture of transparency. Organizations that prioritize ethical norms often see improved trust and engagement, leading to better overall performance.

Social psychology research supports the idea that transparency in business practices can lead to increased consumer engagement.

According to a study in the Journal of Business Ethics, companies that prioritize ethical transparency tend to foster stronger relationships with their customers.

This relationship-building can ultimately contribute to long-term success.

7. "I used to work at Walmart, and during training, they show new employees an hour long anti union propaganda film."

Three_foot_hobbit

8. Abercrombie and Fitch burn clothes that are damaged even in the slightest way to protect their reputation

"Abercrombie and Fitch will burn clothes that are damaged even in the slightest way. I'm talking a tiny hole from a security tag, a slight loose threading in the logo on a hoodie.

They will not donate these clothes to the people that need them because it would tarnish their reputation as a 'luxury brand'."

Right_and_Left

10. "After the accident, Union Carbide compensated victims' families between US$300 and US$500 per victim."

"On December 3, 1984, Union Carbide--now part of Dow--accidentally killed 5,000 residents of Bhopal, India, when its pesticide plant sprung a leak. It abandoned the plant without cleaning it up, and since then, an estimated 15,000 more people have died from complications, most resulting from chemicals released into the groundwater.

Although legal investigations have consistently pinpointed Union Carbide as culprit, both Union Carbide and Dow have had to publicly deny these findings. After the accident, Union Carbide compensated victims' families between US$300 and US$500 per victim."

hubhub

Understanding Ethical Blindness

Ethical blindness often occurs when individuals fail to recognize the moral implications of their actions. A study led by Dr. Ann Tenbrunsel demonstrates how cognitive biases can cloud judgment, leading employees to overlook unethical practices.

This phenomenon is especially prevalent in high-pressure environments where performance metrics overshadow ethical considerations. Organizations should implement regular ethics training to raise awareness and encourage critical thinking about moral choices.

Addressing Corporate Malfeasance

To combat unethical practices, companies are encouraged to adopt comprehensive ethics training for employees.

This training should emphasize the importance of integrity and accountability in all business dealings.

Creating a culture of ethics can empower employees to speak up against unethical practices without fear of retaliation.

10. Moldy chili

"Not really a "company secret" but it is pretty vile. I used to work at Waffle House.

I had just come in to start my overnight shift and I was doing my walkthrough, making a list of things for 2nd shift to finish before they left. I checked the steam-tables and found sausage gravy and chili in it.

Sausage gravy shouldn't be in the steam tables as long as this had. It gets too runny.

Whatever, happens all the time, they don't usually serve it, they're just too lazy to clean it out because it cakes to the sides. Then I take the lid off the chili.

Gross white fuzzy mold on top. And it's the stinky type.

You could smell it the moment the lid came off. I called my manager over to show him.

There was obviously something wrong if it

was growing mold. Either sat there way too long, or steam table temps were messed up, or whatever. Don't know, don't care. His job, so I called him over.

He *immediately* stirs it up and says it's fine. Ummm.. WHAT?

He says it's not a problem, go ahead and serve it. I told him there's no way I can do that.

He pulls me in close, like he's telling me a secret, and says we have to sell that chili because we have no chili made to replace it, and, anyway, food costs are too high. I told him I didn't care, and I'd be throwing it away.

He's insistent. "Throw it away if you want, but it's fine. I'd sell it. You'll just be upsetting customers if they want it and can't have it."

One more time I look him in the eye, raise my voice so the customer about 5 feet away can hear me, and I say "**I'm not selling moldy chili.**" He just says "whatever" and storms off.

I immediately texted my store manager and district manager. No answer.

Next morning I e-mail corporate. No answer.

Couple days later I e-mailed Department of Labor and the Health Department. Got a "thanks for the head's-up" e-mail.

Nothing ever happened to the guy. As far as I know (still friends with many of the employees there and the rumor mill is worse than middle school) no one (corporate, DoL, HD) even contacted the store or management."

SadBrontosaurus

11. "The whole company is corrupt"

"I am a manager at a fast food restaurant (I won't name it because I unfortunately still need my job there) and my regional manager told me I'd 'volunteer' hours or get fired. I asked about certain laws against this and was told that he could fire me for something else, the cameras at said store don't even work.

I also had to close the store down by myself, also off the clock, because "managers should fend for themselves." Upon being hired as a manager, I was told I could move up in the company indefinitely.

They then fired my boss for her getting paid too much. That's the legitimate reason they used.

I'm not even sure how that works. The whole company is corrupt and I wish I could find a new job.

Seriously, I was nearly fired because my till was short about 200 dollars. When they checked the cameras (they worked then, this was years ago) they saw it was the district manager's daughter.

The matter was dropped and she still works there. I hate my job.

None of this is really a 'deep dark secret' but I felt the need to vent."

FerociousOreos

12. "KFC goes to some pretty crazy lengths to protect their secret spices...only three people in the world know what they are, and they are never allowed to travel on the same plane, or be in the same vicinity."

lukedimarco

According to Dr. Paul Zak, a neuroeconomist, trust is a key factor in corporate environments. His research shows that companies with high levels of trust report not only better employee morale but also increased productivity.

Zak emphasizes the importance of transparency and ethical behavior in fostering trust. When employees feel secure in their work environment, they're more likely to report unethical practices instead of remaining complicit.

Additionally, implementing anonymous reporting systems can encourage employees to report unethical behavior without fear of repercussions.

Research shows that companies that foster a safe reporting environment tend to have lower rates of unethical behavior.

This can enhance organizational integrity and public perception.

13. "Literally some of the worst people I've ever met"

"I was in the Marines for 5 years. Other than a few absolutely SHINING examples of macho-ism and fitness the vast majority of the force is fat, lazy, disgusting, ignorant pieces of human s**t.

Literally some of the worst people I've ever met. Sorry to my fellow Devil Dog's but you f*****g know its true and if you don't you are that slob."

anon

14. "We are taught that if a potential client lives in a not so nice area we are to make it as difficult as possible to give them our product"

Just_Joey_Sims

15. Class for learning that poor people are different

"My last job trained us how to deal with "people of lower socioeconomic status." It was a class on how to understand poor people and why they're different from other people.

There were charts and videos all explaining how not to think of them as irresponsible, but to understand that their uneducated selves have a different, poor culture. It was one of those situations that leave you looking around the room wondering if anyone else sees how absurd the situation is."

Alpha_Blonde

The Impact of Leadership on Ethics

Leadership plays a critical role in shaping ethical behavior within organizations. Research by Dr. Linda Treviño highlights how ethical leaders act as role models and set standards for acceptable behavior.

When leaders demonstrate integrity and prioritize ethical decision-making, employees are more likely to follow suit. Studies show that organizations with ethical leadership experience fewer scandals and a stronger commitment to organizational values.

Restoring Trust Through Accountability

Ultimately, restoring public trust requires a commitment to accountability and ethical behavior.

Organizations can rebuild their reputations by openly addressing past mistakes and implementing corrective measures.

Transparency about corporate practices can enhance consumer confidence and loyalty.

16. "The first time we did a weekend cleaning, I puked"

"I work at one of the biggest producer of soups worldwide. When you would know how the machine looks and how rare they get cleaned you would NEVER eat instant soup.

The first time we did a weekend cleaning, i puked becouse it was so disgusting."

Lokrano

17. HSBC bank

misopog_on

18. Trader Joe's

MyOwnHurricane

Psychological ownership refers to the feeling of possessiveness towards one’s work, which can influence how employees respond to unethical practices. Research indicates that employees who feel a strong sense of ownership are more likely to act against unethical behavior.

A study by Dr. Jeffery D. Houghton found that fostering a sense of ownership among employees enhances their commitment to the organization’s ethical standards, encouraging them to take action when they witness wrongdoing.

In conclusion, understanding the ethical dimensions of corporate secrecy is essential for maintaining public trust.

By prioritizing transparency and accountability, businesses can create a more ethical environment that benefits both the organization and its consumers.

19. "In reality, all they really care about is milking Medicaid for every penny"

DPool34

20. "This game sucks, you should play this game instead"

"Worked at a start-up web design firm a few years back. We were making a browser-based city builder game, and my job was creating little Flash mini-games that could be played in it for resources bonuses and such.

There was one game that kinda evolved, got out of hand, and we fleshed it out into a full-fledged standalone game as a means to get attention for our project by submitting this game to Newgrounds and such. Kind of a "hey, if you like this game, I make many more like it for this browser-based city simulator!"

Totally legit operation too. Until I found out what the company President was doing.

He was going to the other games featured on the sites I submitted to, creating accounts, and dumping on other games. He was giving one-star reviews and 0/10's and thumbsdowns, all shamelessly, all w***y nilly, and dropping the same copy/paste comment to them all.

"This game sucks, you should play this game instead:" and he'd link to my game. I'm glad that company dissolved and that fat opportunistic f**k isn't in charge of anything anymore."

anon

21. "Large American restaurant chains and their use of microwaves for almost everything."

projectseven

Strategies for Encouraging Whistleblowing

To promote whistleblowing, organizations can adopt several strategies grounded in psychological principles. Research suggests that creating anonymous reporting channels can significantly increase employee willingness to report unethical behavior. Moreover, emphasizing the absence of retaliation for whistleblowers can alleviate fears. As Dr. Susan David, an emotional agility expert, states, "Creating a safe environment for employees to voice their concerns is crucial for fostering ethical behavior in the workplace." These measures can lead to more ethical workplace environments, as highlighted by the insights on emotional intelligence and workplace culture found on her professional website.

22. "Victoria Secret uses child slaves"

WesleyDonaldson

23. "The restaurant was only dimmed not to be fancy but rather hide the mouse hole problem"

softdragon

24. Apple has the right to invade their employees' personal data and use it in case of a leak

h0bb1tm1ndtr1x

The Psychological Cost of Silence

Silence in the face of unethical practices can have profound psychological effects on employees. A study by Dr. Janice A. Edwards found that remaining silent can lead to increased anxiety and stress among employees who feel powerless to effect change.

This tension can contribute to lower job satisfaction and overall mental health issues. Organizations should prioritize creating an environment where employees feel empowered to speak up about unethical behavior.

25. Rats for veterans

f0k4ppl3

26. "We make better revenue and reviews from those 48 hour online deliveries."

"Not huge, but if we have less than two of the size you're looking for in the back we're 'out'. We make better revenue and reviews from those 48 hour online deliveries.

So if you order from our in store computer with the free shipping you're probably getting something a 150 feet away from where you're standing."

JehovahsHalibut

27. The director of the law center for people with disabilities can't read

NVAdvocate

Psychological safety is essential for fostering open communication about company ethics. Dr. Amy Edmondson's research indicates that teams with high psychological safety are more likely to engage in discussions about ethical dilemmas.

Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing concerns can significantly reduce the prevalence of unethical practices. Organizations should encourage feedback and ensure that employees know their voices are valued, fostering a culture of accountability.

28. "We test makeup on babies. Chinese children are cheaper than rabbits."

anon

29. Big Mac sauce: Thousand Island dressing.

"Big Mac sauce: Thousand Island dressing. McChicken sauce: Hellmans mayonnaise.

I tell people this all the time but they insist "it's different"."

anon

30. "Dunkin' Donuts at Fenway park serves regular coffee as decaf."

"Dunkin' Donuts at Fenway park serves regular coffee as decaf. Kinda scummy for people that are trying to get off caffeine."

SgtDowns

The Importance of Ethical Training

Implementing regular ethics training can be a powerful tool for organizations seeking to mitigate unethical behavior. Research shows that continuous education on ethical standards can reinforce the importance of integrity among employees.

Studies by the Ethics & Compliance Initiative suggest that organizations with effective ethics programs see a decrease in misconduct. Training should include real-world scenarios to help employees navigate complex ethical situations.

31. AT&T answer to no one

Dfwflyr

32. "The claw machines where you try to win plush toys at arcades have a payout percentage"

aardvarkyardwork

33. It's not a secret

tealparadise

The phenomenon of groupthink can severely hinder ethical decision-making in organizations. Groupthink occurs when the desire for harmony within a group suppresses dissenting viewpoints, leading to poor ethical choices.

According to research by Dr. Irving Janis, promoting diversity of thought and encouraging dissent can help combat this issue. Organizations should create structures that allow for open debate and the expression of differing opinions to avoid ethical pitfalls.

34. "Stores essentially pay us money to tell them they're being stolen from"

"My company does retail audits. Stores essentially pay us money to tell them they're being stolen from.

It's likely that the majority of us do what we can to ensure it looks like they are being stolen from.

Tl;dr: We lie to liars to make sure we can all still lie to each other for money."

Yogimast_er

35. "We basically turned waste into our most popular app."

"Former sous chef at PF Changs. Don't eat chicken lettuce wraps.

It's basically all the parts of the chicken you would normally throw away ground up, mixed with ground water chestnuts and rehydrated mushrooms. Tossed in a wok with what we call dark sauce (tons if salt and sugar).

We basically turned waste into our most popular app."

brianbadluck

36. "Walmart doesn't sell walls."

Ryalre

The Impact of Fear on Reporting

Fear of retaliation is a significant barrier to reporting unethical behavior. Studies have shown that employees often choose silence over speaking up due to concerns about job security or workplace relationships.

According to the American Psychological Association, organizations should cultivate a culture of support and protection for whistleblowers to encourage reporting. This approach can significantly reduce the prevalence of unethical practices within the workplace.

37. Private ambulance service charges for unnecessary hospital transports

anon

38. Events venue steals beer and wine from suppliers

YejRev

39. People still use their products/services

"The honest answer: absolutely nothing. Most big companies have huge some-not-so-secret-skeletons in their closets and that people still don't shy away from using their products/services."

kcman011

Emotional intelligence (EI) plays a vital role in ethical decision-making within companies. Research indicates that individuals with high EI are better equipped to navigate complex moral dilemmas.

Dr. Daniel Goleman’s work emphasizes that emotionally intelligent leaders can foster an environment of empathy and ethical awareness, aiding employees in making principled choices. Organizations should consider EI training to enhance ethical behavior.

40. "The toilet seat covers in public restrooms do nothing."

anon

41. "Sugar-free desserts for the diabetics were slightly smaller portions of regular desserts"

reddit

While working for a company offers various benefits, it might expose employees to morally conflicting situations because many companies have some hidden secrets. So, when you've read them all in this post, let us know which one you find the most shocking.

If you want to share some dark company secrets with us, you can do so in the comments section below.

Psychological Analysis

This conversation underscores the importance of ethical practices in business operations.

Recognizing the impact of secrecy on consumer trust can drive companies to adopt more transparent and accountable practices.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, corporate secrecy can have profound implications for public trust and business success.

By fostering a culture of transparency and ethics, companies can enhance their reputations and consumer relationships.

Practical Steps for Healing

In conclusion, addressing unethical behavior within organizations requires a multifaceted approach rooted in psychological principles. Research shows that fostering an environment of psychological safety, trust, and open communication significantly impacts employees' willingness to report unethical practices.

By implementing regular ethics training, encouraging diverse viewpoints, and protecting whistleblowers, companies can cultivate a culture of integrity that not only enhances their reputation but also supports employee well-being. This commitment to ethical practices is essential for long-term organizational success.