Clarissa is a sales representative for a large pharmaceutical firm. While calling on one of her major clients, the purchasing director of a hospital, the client told her confidential information that a sales representative from a competing firm had passed on to him. The information completely contradicts Clarissa's firm's understanding of the competitor's business strategy and would allow Clarissa's employer to gain many of the competitor's clients. What ethical implications may result from this situation?

Question

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Clarissa is in possession of confidential information that was obtained from a competitor's representative. It is unethical to use such information to gain a competitive edge, as competitors have the right to maintain confidentiality of their business strategies. Clarissa should not use this information to gain an unfair advantage in the market. Additionally, as a sales representative, Clarissa has a responsibility to maintain ethical conduct and to safeguard confidential information disclosed by her clients.

Clarissa Is a Sales Representative for a Large Pharmaceutical Firm