CBP Program – Business Etiquette

Module 4: Business Ethics

Module 4: Business Ethics

Objectives:1. Note the role of ethics in the workplace

2. Describe the challenge of ethics in the workplace

3. Recommend guidelines for creating a code of ethics

4. Discuss ethical guidelines for various scenarios

5. Highlight guidelines to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace

6. Describe simple methods for dealing with conflict

7. Choosing appropriate gifts for occasions

IntroductionThe role of ethics in the workplace must be embraced and

promoted to ensure corporate success.

Ethics in the WorkplaceDishonest gain is not a permanent gain, the failure of so many

companies may be from being dishonest, having a lack of integrity, and financial impropriety.

What is Business Ethics: Business Ethics focuses on doing what is right in the business

environment so you must know right from wrong. Business Ethics affects how we interact with everyone and

affects every part of the business environment. Business Ethics is even more vital when companies face

opportunities or challenges because at these times, companies and individuals may compromise their values.

The Challenge of Business Ethics

The Challenge of Business Ethics The challenge of business ethics is to provide a measure to

establish what are ethical and unethical business practices. Businesses and leaders must promote ethics in the

workplace to sensitize employees on ethical considerations and to guide actions

Business ethics in the workplace often focuses on values management

Creating an Ethical CompassCreating an Ethical Compass

• Since defining ethical behavior can be challenging, companies should provide a clear code of ethics to help employees make suitable decisions

• The code of ethics should be promoted and published to all employees

• The following are important are important components of the compass that help us make ethical decisions in the workplace:

• Values• Policies and Procedures• Laws of Regulations• Conscience

Creating an Ethical Compass continued…

Values: • Values are the things that are valuable or important to an

organization/individual. • Values are the guiding principles by which we abide.• Values should be broad and diverse.• Values may define guidelines for the following:

• Standards for action• Relationships, both internal and external• Ideals• Financial mattersAn example of a value: “Fairness to all stakeholders.”

Creating an Ethical Compass continued…

Policies and Procedures: • Specific policies and procedures help employees know what is

acceptable and appropriate behavior.• Policies & procedures may define company values, disciplinary

procedure, confidentiality policies, harassment, health and safety issues, and general principles of employment.

Laws and Regulations: • The company and employees should be familiar with the laws

and regulations that affect the operation of a business.

For example: Making copies of computer software is illegal.

Creating an Ethical Compass continued…

Conscience: • Conscience is our inner sense of right and wrong and is personal

in nature. • When conscience is violated, we feel guilt. • Where we find that actions violate our conscience, you should

seek clarification and discuss with peers.

Business Ethics Advantages

Ethics in the workplace has numerous benefits such as corporate viability (ex. Enron, The WorldCom)

The following are some of the benefits of promoting business ethics:

• Stability• Positive Corporate Image• Improved Employee Performance• Protects Against Illegal Activity• Quality of Service

Ethical Issues

We encounter ethical issues on a daily basis that challenge our personal and organizational values.

Let’s all read and discuss the examples on page 60 and take

notes.

Preventing Sexual HarassmentSexual harassment at work is unwelcome physical, verbal or non-

verbal conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating work environment. It is in direct violation of BE standards and the law.

Why Deal with Sexual Harassment?1. Sexual Harassment can damage business performance2. Good employers actively promote a positive working environment 3. Sexual harassment can cost money

Five Steps to Prevent Sexual Harassment1. Develop a clear policy for preventing and tackling harassment. 2. Make sure everyone knows and understands the policy.3. Treat sexual harassment as a health and safety issue.4. Lead by example.5. Monitor policy implementation.

Conflict Resolution Conflict resolution is a discussion in which mutual satisfactory

goals are reached, which may include negotiation, mediation, and compromise.

1. Clearly identify the problem2. Face the problem!3. Explore each person’s perception of the problem4. Stick to the issue at hand5. Practice Effective Communication Skills6. Use “I” messages instead of “You” messages7. Determine each person’s needs and try to come up with a win-

win situation8. Take action!

Choose the Appropriate Gift in the Business Environment

Gifts need to be chosen with care. Gifts in a business context are normally given as thanks to clients, rewards, celebrations, and promotions. The giving of gifts may represent bribery to others if the gift is chosen carelessly.

Some guidelines include:• Consider the cultural implications• Avoid lavish gifts• Avoid personal gifts• Establish a budget• Avoid perishable gifts• Consider the suitability of the gift to the occasion• For group gifts, try to establish consensus.