By Miranda Brookins Updated February 01, 2019
Unethical behaviors can plague a workplace, whether an executive steals money from the company or an associate falsifies documents. Unethical behaviors can damage a company's credibility, causing the business to lose customers and ultimately shut down. However, business owners and their management teams can work with employees to prevent unethical behaviors.
Create a Code of Conduct
A written code of conduct provides employees and managers with an overview of the type of conduct and behaviors the company expects. It outlines what behaviors are unacceptable and what measures are taken if an employee violates the code of conduct. For example, a company with a social media policy in place prohibiting company discussion may need to discipline or fire an employee who violates the policy by ranting about a new workplace initiative.
Lead By Example
Employees look to business owners and managers for direction on how they should conduct themselves. As a business owner, make ethics-based decisions and monitor the individuals you put into leadership roles at your company for the same values. If you see a manager violating company practices, such as a policy against workplace relationships, intercede immediately to retain credibility with other workers.
Reinforce Consequences for Unethical Behavior
Business owners must hold their employees accountable when they act unethically. Start by informing new employees of the rules during their orientation sessions. Make sure all new workers know the consequences of policy violations. If an employee acts unethically, refer to the code of conduct and take the necessary measures to warn or terminate.
Show Employees Appreciation
Loyal employees feel that a company values the hard work they put into accomplishing tasks on a daily basis. A loyal employee is less likely to act unethically. Show appreciation to workers on a regular basis to encourage loyalty. Consider offering an extra day off per quarter or year to top performers or institute a bonus program in the sales division to reward hard work.
Welcome an Ethics Speaker
Schedule an ethics trainer to visit your work site to discuss ethical behavior and explain why it is important in organizations, regardless of the size or industry. Ethics trainers use role-playing, motivational speaking, videos and handouts to illustrate the importance of ethics in the workplace.
Create Checks and Balances
Rather than putting related responsibilities in the hands of one employee, create a system of checks and balances to minimize the opportunities for unethical behavior. For example, a sales associate rings up customer purchases, while an accountant balances the books to ensure that all payables are received and documented. Use an annual audit to verify established procedures are being followed and develop new policies to address any unique situations that arise during the year.
Hire for Values
When business owners hire employees, many seek to bring on individuals who have the education and experience that prove they are skilled workers, capable of handling the tasks at hand. Employers who want to prevent unethical behavior also look at candidates' values to ensure they mesh with the company's culture. Make sure a new employee believes in working diligently to earn a salary and are ready to comply with company policies.
