Got Ethics?

Throughout our lives we have all ran cross a system that is flawed. In some instances those flaws are not put in the spotlight until the system is no longer benefiting the individual. As long as the system is doing right by an individual then it is acceptable, despite whomever else it may negatively impact. The problem is that any system that is designed and/or operated by a human being will have flaws. Reason being is that humans make mistakes and in no way, shape or form are we perfect.

Being a leader requires you to make decisions that are not going to only benefit you but everyone else. Especially in the public administration field leaders need to ensure that they lead by example with solid, responsible, and ethical decisions. Being a leader does not only mean that you need to go by the book and ensuring the rules are enforced. It also means that you have the capability and the will to be able to realize when issues arise and to make the right decision when there are grey areas.

At the same time, it takes more than one person to make things move in the right direction. This is where the organizational code of ethics, conduct, and values come into place. Ensuring that you have the right tools to back you up is a big thing in leadership. Without someone in your corner you will not be able to accomplish things alone. Its equivalent to having a blue print for a home you want to build without having the funds to start building it. Having solid principles and codes to follow by will set the ground work for the employees to make better decisions.

Having the wrong rules or code of ethics can get your organization to come together, however it will not be in benefit of the company. Each level of the organization plays a key part in ensuring that the organization runs smoothly and ethically. This example should always be from the top down. Standards and codes should not be too strict to where it doesn't allow one to grow within. On the other hand, it shouldn't be too loose as to where it allows employers to find loopholes and ways around doing the right thing.

It also gets a bit tricky when you have an organization because everyone comes in with their own ethical views. It is up to the organization to find out who is best fit for them. In addition, organizations should make their handbooks easily accessible so that the associates will be able to find out what the code is and what they need to do in case someone violates the codes. Many times too many ethical rules go untold because associates do not know where to go and they are afraid to ask someone fearing that someone will know that they told.

Recently I just watched a clip from CNN where they featured the Ethics Guy. He mentioned 5 basic rules of them: do no harm, make things better, be fair, respect others and be compassionate. He notes that these rules apply to every aspect of your life; this can be utilized in the home, at the office, restaurant, etc. Review the clip and answer the short quiz within it. 

Many of those questions may seem self-explanatory, however everyone does not think the same way. I would have thought that the anchor would have gotten all of the answers correct. As we can see she struggled with answering the questions in the most ethical manner. What seems correct and ethical for you may be wrong for the next person. This is the very reason for the organization to have a code. This is also a reason for the leaders to receive the buy-end of their employers. One can easily dish out rules and tell others to follow it. However, that is not effective when dealing with so many different types of individuals. Helping them understand the reason behind the rules, and addressing and questions or concerns they may have will work the best.

The next time you go to work, try to locate your organizations code of ethics. See if they match up with what toy morally believe. Was the handbook easily accessible and does everyone know about it? If not, ask for a copy and if the organization doesn't have one then there may be a problem.