The Volkswagen emissions scandal did untold damage to its brand and share value. But does an employee’s association with a scandal-hit organisation affect their standing in the jobs market – even if they had no connection with bad practice? This research finds that corporate scandals can hurt careers and suggests three steps to help individuals bounce back.

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Bullying
and harassment

Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.

View our resources

Reviewed by

Charles Cotton, Senior Performance and Reward Adviser, CIPD

Charles has recently led research into the business case for pensions, how front line managers make and communicate reward decisions, and managing reward risks, as well as the creation of a good practice guide on the annual pay review process. He is also responsible for the CIPD’s public policy work in the area of reward and is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD.

More on this topic

Factsheet
The non-executive director role

Learn how non-executive directors (NEDs) differ from executive directors and how they operate within an organisation

For Members
Factsheet
Corporate responsibility: An introduction

This factsheet explores corporate responsibility and putting it into action in the workplace

For Members
Factsheet
Modern slavery

Learn what modern slavery is, as well as HR's role in preventing and tackling it

For Members
CIPD Viewpoint
Responsible business

Explore the CIPD’s point of view on responsible business, including recommendations for employers

Latest Bitesize research

Bitesize research
When and how does psychological safety fluctuate for employees?

An investigation on how psychological safety experienced by employees changes over time and the reasons for these fluctuations

For Members
Bitesize research
Factors influencing ChatGPT adoption in the workplace

What are the barriers to the adoption of generative AI tools at work and how can they be overcome?

For Members
Bitesize research
Using algorithms to make decisions ethically and responsibly

Algorithms can help speed decisions and help organisations to operate more efficiently or profitably, but what are the pitfalls particularly from an ethical perspective?

For Members
Bitesize research
Role ambiguity can lead to bullying but supportive leadership helps

How might role ambiguity lead to workplace bullying and what is the impact of leadership support in negating this effect?

For Members
All Bitesize research