Sometimes we hear people say, “you must act ethically,” “what a lack of ethics,” or “this is not ethical,” among countless statements concerning the urgency of their incorporation into the workplace. However, what is evident for some, avoids being so for all. Achieving its full validity demands explicit conditions that, in my opinion, avoid framing the business activities of innumerable men and women.
Ethics involves including rules that indicate how to behave to ensure a worthy performance. It allows demonstrating attitudes and habits consistent with the organisation’s corporate values and that, in addition, must be sustainable over time. Therefore, we refer to each choice’s principles to guide our actions and decisions.
Proceeding ethically is not impossible, nor is it an abstraction. It demands proven self-esteem, transparency to make decisions -not always welcome and accepted- and solidly possessed precepts; we must integrate these elements unequivocally. In the name of “pragmatism,” it is intended, in countless circumstances, to place ethics in parentheses. Also, let us consider that the majority’s will, agreement, or pressure does not imply a correct decision. Hence the enormous importance of proceeding, at all times, with independence and distance from outside interference.
Nor let us seek refuge in the rest’s actions to justify ourselves. Let us act with individuality; let us decline to resort to various forms of “moral disconnection” to minimise or protect our positions. Ethics requires autonomy, firmness, conviction, and courage. It will be inapplicable in fearful, hesitant, skittish, and cowardly beings. Remember!
The work environment makes it possible to realise the difficulties and misunderstandings about its implementation or its coincidence with corporate policies. However, it enhances the image, gives credibility, and provides prestige. It is a magnificent cover letter and represents added value. In short, it will unfold new opportunities and achievements.
Next, I explain several practical recommendations, beyond our hierarchy, for the scope of work. It is only about reflections and suggestions associated with good business practices, whose value will depend on the solvency and conviction to interpret the obligatory transcendence of ethics unambiguously.
Make transparency an acting style. This is part of a virtuous circle aimed at promoting trust and, therefore, the creation of a coexistence that will facilitate bearable reciprocity with its collaborators, customers, suppliers, etc. Likewise, it conceives a space of a more excellent approach for business.
Practice loyalty. It is one of the most esteemed values due to its vast repercussion; it will be an unquestionable manifestation of your whole spirit of identity and commitment to the organisation. It is difficult and a medium-full of temptations, betrayals, and ephemeral fidelities.
Proceed discreetly. Keep absolute confidentiality even when they are not confidential topics. Moderation will make it easier to make it worthy of consideration. Own your silence instead of being a slave to the words exposed in moments of recklessness. This quality can ensure your job stability.
Assume tolerance as an expression of your soft skills. Be able to forge a healthy interaction with those who, for religious, social, ideological, sexual reasons, etc., have opposing views to yours. Apply empathy and accept human differences. Discrepancies provide us with learning, contributions, and positive connotations.
Be consistent between what you think, feel, say, and do. Make up your mind to carry out this light exercise in a context dominated by interests, calculations, and opportunism. Have the modesty to communicate what you conceive – keeping adequate correction and tact – and decline to declare what others want to hear. Ignore flattering or complicit comments. This painful custom is normalised in teachers’ meetings made up of submission, apathy, and sordid silence.
Exercise respect as a factor of integration. Recognition of the rights of others, good education, and kindness distinguishes, opens doors, enhances personality, and generates an optimal space for understanding. It will make the connection with your peers more pleasant and contribute to an excellent work environment.
Our performance evidences our values and guidelines and reveals the genuine dimension of our ethics. Let us have the indissoluble conviction of internalising it as an inspiring and hopeful light, despite the darkness, obstacles, and apathy we face. I evoke with enthusiasm the words of the famous Australian writer Morris West: “Example is the lesson that all men can read.”
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Writer by Wilfredo Pérez Ruiz, Teacher, communicator, and consultant in protocol, ceremonial, social etiquette, and public relations.
04 June 2022, Peru
Category: Business Ethics
Reference: WP04072022BE
