What is the specific description of expected employee behavior known as?

The specific description of expected employee behavior is known as a norm. Norms are informal guidelines about what is considered acceptable behavior within a particular group or organization. They shape the work culture and ensure that all employees are aligned in terms of expectations and interactions. While rules are formalized directives that specify what must or must not be done, norms are more about established practices and social expectations that guide behavior in a less formal manner.

Standards, on the other hand, refer to measurable criteria or benchmarks of performance that can be assessed, making them more outcome-focused rather than behavior-focused. Values represent deeply held beliefs about what is important or desirable, influencing the principles behind the norms but not specifically describing expected behavior in the same direct way.

Thus, norms effectively encapsulate the shared understanding of acceptable conduct among employees, making it the correct answer in this context.