Business Ethics Presentation

Business Etiquette  Session 2: Ethical Decision Problem-Solving Toolkit The Smell Test When you are considering a solution, ask yourself these questions: How would I explain this decision to my children? How would I feel if this decision were reported on the news? Can I live with...

Business Etiquette  Session 2: Ethical Decision Problem-Solving Toolkit The Smell Test When you are considering a solution, ask yourself these questions: How would I explain this decision to my children? How would I feel if this decision were reported on the news? Can I live with this decision? Will it keep me up at night? How would my mother feel about this decision? These questions will highlight potential problems with the solution you’re considering.  Session 2: Why Bother with Ethics? Customers choose ethics. Customers will base their decision whether or not to shop with you partially on ethics. Customers appreciate ethics. Customers reward ethical companies with loyalty. Employees are more loyal to an ethical company. If you’re working for a company that lies, cheats, and steals, you’re apt to think that the company will do the same to you, and you’ll probably be less loyal to them as a result. Ethical companies are more productive. Studies have shown that employees in ethical offices take less time off and are more productive when they’re in the office (probably because they’re not gossiping and doing other unethical things!). An ethical office means less legal costs. If your employees are in the habit of lying, cheating, and stealing, someone is going to get caught eventually and it will likely mean a big legal headache (and a big bill) for the company. Nipping unethical behavior in the bud can reduce your chances of a lawsuit. Session 2: Kohlberg’s Six Stages (Reading Assignment)  Session 2: Kohlberg’s Six Stages (Reading Assignment) There have been entire books written on this theory, but for our purposes, it isn’t necessary to go into the deep ramifications of this study. Let’s summarize Kohlberg’s findings for you. Level One: Pre-Conventional Morality During these two stages of moral development, the person sees rules as something imposed on them. Moral decisions also often self-centered and based on the possible consequences of an action. Fear is often the motive for actions. Level Two: Conventional Morality During these two stages of moral development, the person sees rules as something to be valued in and of themselves. The norms of their family, friends, and peers override the individual’s motivations. Level Three: Post-Conventional Morality During these two stages, the person becomes capable of reflecting on and evaluating the norms and values of their society. At the first stage, the person becomes aware that there are many different value sets and norms around the globe and commits to valuing each one equally. They will emphasize a fair way of recognizing all sets of values and norms when making decisions.  Session 2: Kohlberg’s Six Stages Case Study  Scenario One: Mohammed is a judge in a court system where he must be re-elected every year. He recently had to make a decision in a case of theft: should the person be sentenced to life in jail or executed? Mohammed knew that in similar cases, the guilty person had been executed. He also knew that there would be significant backlash from the voters if he let this person live. Despite the pressure, Mohammed chose to sentence the guilty person to life in jail. - Level of Development? - Decision at Level One? - Decision at Level Two? - Decision at Level Three?  Session 2: Avoiding Ethical Dilemmas Make sure ethical expectations are clear. Don’t just say yes. Learn to say no. Don’t be the frog. Don’t be nosy. Lead by example.  Session 2: Avoiding Ethical Dilemmas Case Study Scenario One: You are the administrative assistant for the marketing department. Due to layoffs and downsizing, you now deliver mail and faxes throughout the building rather than just through your department. You’re not used to dealing with confidential information; it’s really tempting to peek and get the juicy gossip! One day, a fax from a high-ranking politician comes in. You look at it longingly, wanting to read it. -What are the Dilemma/Potential Dilemma? -Prevention Strategies? Session 2: Pitfalls and Excuses The decision is just too difficult. I’m not going to do anything. There’s nothing I can do. My job is too important to make any other decision. I was just following orders. I have to remain loyal. I didn’t have time to make the right decision.  Session 2: Developing an Office Code of Ethics A code of ethics, when properly implemented and followed, can have the following benefits. Happier employees More consistent decisions More committed employees What other benefits can you think of?  Session 2: Developing an Office Code of Ethics Rotary Four-Way Test Of the things we think, say, or do: 1.Is it the TRUTH? 2.Is it FAIR to all concerned? 3.Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? 4.Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? Thank you