Workplace Ethics
Author: Youth 2 Youth.
| Ethical = morally right, honorable and fair |
Workplace ethics are an increasingly
important issue for small business,
particularly in
regard to employment
relations. If employment issues
are
not handled in an ethical (as well as
legal and
socially responsible) manner
they can lead to problems
such as poor
employee morale and low productivity.
| Ethical issues in the workplace may include |
Unlawful dismissal |
By dealing with these challenges and issues in an ethical manner, you business will enhance its image, comply with the law, increase staff motivation, gain community support and maintain a pleasant working environment.
Every workplace should get on the right track by establishing both a Code of Conduct and a Code of Ethics. A Code of Conduct is a statement of acceptable and unacceptable behaviours in the business; whilst a Code of Ethics is a statement of the company's principles and values. Your should involve staff from all levels of your business in the development of your Code of Ethics, and ensure it is consistent with the vision and branding of the organisation. Your Code of Conduct should be run past a lawyer to ensure it meets legal requirements in your State.
Consult sources (books, web sites, experts) on Human Resources, Employment Relations and Law when drawing up either or both of these Codes. And speak to your Lawyer.
