Business Ethics Policies And You!
Business ethics policies are instrumental in long-term profitability. Clients and customers must have trust and faith in your business. Nobody wants to deal with a business with a reputation of deceit and dishonesty.
Effective ethics policies are difficult to put on paper because so many different people, with so many different intentions, compromise business ethics on a daily basis. It’s not uncommon for ethical conflicts to exist between making money and playing by the book. People are tested whenever they are put into a situation of doing what’s right for them, what’s right for their employer and what’s right for the customer or consumer. Having solid policies in place and in practice establishes a code of conduct for you and your employees to follow. It’s really for the good of your character, the good of your business and your long-term planning.
It is important to remember that business ethics policies are based largely on personal ethics that are likely instilled in us when we are young. If you know right from wrong in your personal life and if you know better than to lie, cheat and steal, there is no reason for a separation in business dealings.
Say, for instance, you were looking in from the outside. Would you think that your dealings were fair to you and the customer, even your employer? If your answer is no you are likely lacking solid business ethics policies. These questionable ethics will compromise the quality of your service and ultimately your bottom line. If you do someone wrong, chances are word of mouth will spread quickly, almost like a note being passed around an elementary school classroom. Sure you may make a quick dollar but at what cost? Your integrity as a business must be solid with a demonstrated proof of living up to your promises, keeping your commitments and being honest. You don’t want negativity being spread about your service or dealings. Your customer base must be treated with respect. Truth in advertising is a prerequisite of business ethics policies. An ethical business is dependable and trustworthy. Lastly, if you are a owner, director, CEO or manager, even if you are a sole-proprietor, you must abide by and encourage business ethics policies by leading by example. Chances are your attitude will rub off on your employees. It is only logical that you act as a model employee and the poster child for business ethics.
| 