Retaining Ethical Standards in Tough Times
How to Stay True to Company Values When Others Want to Cheat
Jul 28, 2009
Business ethics standards can be a tough sale when an enterprise is struggling to survive. But, does an organization have to throw its ideals out the window in order to continue operations in economic downturns? A better question is: how does an entity maintain ethical standards in tough economic times? This article discusses five tips to retain corporate integrity in a severe downturn.
To Promote Ethical Standards at the Workplace Write Out a Clearly Defined Ethical Statement
The first step to retain corporate integrity in hard times is to write out a clearly defined statement that delineates as much as possible the standards you will adhere to no matter what. Do not wait until the heat is on to establish guidelines for how to conduct business; get the unnegotiables down before the pressure is on.
To Establish Ethics on the Job Model the Ideal Ethical Standard
The second step to maintain the organization's integrity is the leaders have to model it. If the corporate head operates from a double standard then the staff will think the ethical statement is meaningless and do business as it seems best to them at the given time.
To Promote Ethical Behavior at the Workplace Hire Employees Who Agree with Company Standards
Larry Ruddell, author of Business Ethics - Faith That Works, says: "Take pains to find people who are a good ethical match to your company." These days it may be difficult to find out background information about a prospect since many former employers are afraid of potential lawsuits for defamation of character. Still, getting the right people onboard is half the battle.
To Establish Ethics on the Job Reinforce the Ethical Guidelines through Creative Reminders
Some of the ways Ruddell suggests indoctrinating workers is to run them through a thorough orientation program and then find creative ways to constantly remind them of company's ethical guidelines.
To Promote Ethical Standards at the Workplace Enforce Violations Swiftly but Justly
Often organizations make a big deal of their ideals, but fail to follow up on infractions. Such a lack of follow through tells other employees that management is not serious about the corporate policies. When corporate leaders act swiftly and appropriately to each unethical incident (i.e. only punish those involved) then all the employees will know that the ethical standards are vital and will act accordingly.
In these five ways, a corporation can maintain its ethical standards in tough economic times.
Sources:
Ruddell, L. (2004). Business Ethics - Faith That Works. Houston, Texas: Halcyon Press.
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