A quote shared by Louis Gagnon, technology executive and social entrepreneur caught my eye this week. It read:  

“Being ethical is not a personality trait. It is not a skill. It is a choice,” “Unfortunately, too many leaders choose NOT to [act ethically] because they think they can get away with it. They think like that because the negative consequences of being unethical are often diffused, deferred and/or invisible.”

The following article was valuable enough to share. It lists the seven ways to increase ethics. 

This is written by Robert Moment

“If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you don’t have integrity, nothing else matters.” — Alan K. Simpson

In the research study, “Does Business Ethics Pay?” by The Institute of Business Ethics (IBE), it was found that companies displaying a “clear commitment to ethical conduct” consistently outperform companies that do not display ethical conduct. The Director of IBE, Philippa Foster Black, stated: “Not only is ethical behavior in business life the right thing to do in principle, we have shown that it pays off in financial returns.”

These findings, and the seven ways to increase ethics listed below, deserve to be considered as an important insight for companies striving for long-term success and growth.

1. Be Trustworthy

Recognize that customers want to do business with a company they can trust; when trust is at the core of a company, it’s easy to recognize. Trust defined, is assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, and truth of a business.

2. Keep an Open Mind

For continuous improvement of a company, the leader of an organization must be open to new ideas. Ask for opinions and feedback from both customers and team members and your company will continue to grow.

3. Meet Obligations

Regardless of the circumstances, do everything in your power to gain the trust of past customer’s and clients, particularly if something has gone awry. Reclaim any lost business by honoring all commitments and obligations.

4. Have Clear Documents

Re-evaluate all print materials including small business advertising, brochures, and other business documents making sure they are clear, precise and professional. Most important, make sure they do not misrepresent or misinterpret.

5. Become Involved in Your Community

Remain involved in community-related issues and activities, thereby demonstrating that your business is a responsible community contributor. In other words, stay involved.

6. Maintain Accounting Control

Take a hands-on approach to accounting and bookkeeping, not only as a means of gaining a better feel for the progress of your company, but as a resource for any “questionable” activities. Gaining control of accounting and record keeping allows you to end any dubious activities promptly.

7. Be Respectful

Treat others with the utmost of respect. Regardless of differences, positions, titles, ages, or other types of distinctions, always treat others with professional respect and courtesy.

Recognizing the significance of business ethics as a tool for achieving your desired outcome is only the beginning. A small business that instills a deep-seated theme of business ethics within its strategies and policies will be evident among customers. It’s overall influence will lead to a profitable, successful company. By recognizing the value of practicing admirable business ethics, and following each of the 7 principles, your success will not be far off.

About the Author:

Robert Moment is a best-selling author, business coach, strategist and the founder of The Moment Group, a consulting firm dedicated to helping small businesses win federal contracts. He just released his new book, “It Only Takes a Moment to Score”, and Sell Integrity, a small business tool that helps you successfully sell your business idea.

Edited by  Alyssa Gregory.