One of the keys to having a successful company or organization is an ethical culture. This kind of environment ensures that you have happy and productive employees, satisfied customers, and a profitable bottom line. Here are the five characteristics (as I see them) of an ethical culture:
The correct behavior on the part of management, supervisors, and employees is always present in an ethical culture. These groups never think about short-cutting or doing something that is not on the up and up to save or make money.
- Doing the right thing: Every decision that is made in the company follows the moral compass. This compass helps decide strategic planning, company objectives, and daily tactics. This moral behavior is encouraged and should be rewarded.
- Behavior trumps money: The correct behavior on the part of management, supervisors, and employees is always present in an ethical culture. These groups never think about short-cutting or doing something that is not on the up and up to save or make money.
- Everyone feels valued: Everyone’s suggestions and thoughts are solicited. This allows the employee to view their position as more than just a job, oftentimes resulting in more discretionary efforts.
- Employees are viewed as partners: The employees in this situation are seen as part owners of the organization. They own a process, a function, or an important objective. They know that execution of their part is critical and wanted.
- Employees understand the numbers: Employees in an ethical culture know and understand the numbers. This allows the employees to make great decisions. It also allows the leadership team to concentrate on strategic issues since the employees are well versed in the business.
The best companies embrace an ethical culture and are viewed as the place to work and the people to do business with. So ask yourself, how am I currently being viewed by existing and potential employees? By customers?
Mike Moore offers HVAC business management advice for managers, technicians, and sales team daily on Facebook, Twitter, and in his blog. Follow Mike and stay in the know.
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