MGT/498
September 27, 2014
Gary Babel
What are Ethics?
One of the main questions when talking about ethics, is the very general question of: What are Ethics? Business Dictionary describes ethics as: “The basic concepts and fundamental principles of decent human conduct. It includes study of universal values such as the essential equality of all men and women, human or natural rights, obedience to the law of the land, concern for health and safety, and increasingly, also for the natural environment.” Ethics can be considered a fundamental stepping stone to become a leader in a company as well as a great starting point for any company to see how a person would conduct themselves while they are representing a company or organization. In a company or an organization, a code of ethics can be a set of principles that guide the programs, policies and decisions for the business. The way a person or company uses their ethical philosophy can affect the reputation, productivity and bottom line of a business.
Ethics in Leaders and Employees
“The ethics that leaders in an organization use to manage employees may have an effect on the morale and loyalty of workers. The code of ethics leaders use determines discipline procedures and the acceptable behavior for all workers in an organization. When leaders have high ethical standards, it encourages workers in the organization to meet that same level. Ethical leadership also enhances the company’s reputation in the financial market and community. A solid reputation for ethics and integrity in the community may improve the company’s business” (The Importance of Ethics, 2014). “Ethical behavior among workers in an organization ensures that employees complete work with honesty and integrity. Employees who use ethics to guide their behavior adhere to employee policies and rules while striving to meet the goals of the organization. Ethical employees also meet standards for quality in their work, which can
References: The Business Meaning of Social Responsibility of Stakeholders. (n.d.).Small Business. Retrieved September 27, 2014, from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/business-meaning-social-responsibility-stakeholders-25516.html The Importance of Ethics in Organizations. (n.d.). Small Business. Retrieved September 25, 2014, from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/importance-ethics-organizations-20925.html Typical Examples of Bad Business Ethics: Companies You Know. (n.d.). Bright Hub. Retrieved September 27, 2014, from http://www.brighthub.com/office/entrepreneurs/articles/115557.aspx What is ethics? Definition and meaning. (n.d.). BusinessDictionary.com. Retrieved September 27, 2014, from http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/ethics.html