Thinking Ethically

Chapter 2: Understanding Ethical and Legal Considerations

Ethics is a tricky subject in the professional world. Although often times there are rules or laws governing ethical behavior and practices, In my experience ethics is often brought up when pertaining to gray areas. 

The book defines Ethics as: The study of the principles of conduct that apply to an individual or a group. This definition is pretty broad but when discussing ethics in terms of the professional world it encompasses topics such as taking home a pen from work as well as more serious ones such as sexual harassment and basic human rights.

At first thought it may seem ok to take home office supplies from work. "It's just a pen, or it's just some sticky notes". These actions are often rationalized by statements like, "I give so much of myself to them, it's the least they could do." While on the surface these items are usually only costing the company a couple of dollars, in reality the actions speak louder than the value of the items. You are stealing from your employer!  Many employers are ok with employees utilizing their resources, so if it is not made clear, ask management. If the answer is no, then clearly it would be against company policy and considered theft. 

"CAN you do it (perhaps), but SHOULD you do it?"

Other times the answers are much more cut and dry. It is never ok to submit a coworker to sexual harassment regardless of whether it is stated in company policy. Just try to think about it the other way around. If you were the other party, would you enjoy unsolicited harassment? Making sure that you and your coworkers all have a place where they can come to work everyday free of distractions and drama is an important part of culture and efficiency in the work place.

Ethical decision making often is also the correct business decision. By answering "Is it the right thing to do?", you can make your employees happy thus more efficient. By ensuring the have a safe, enjoyable atmosphere to come to work they are likely to stay with you longer and provide better work which ultimately affects the company's bottom line.

So next time you are facing a decision that may have ethical implications ask yourself the question:  "CAN you do it (perhaps), but SHOULD you do it?"