Lecture
2
Principles of Ethical Business Leaders
In this lecture, we will examine a number of principles of highly
ethical people. These principles are taken from the work of Al Erisman,
editor of the journal, Ethics. Dr. Erisman is Professor of Business
at Seattle Pacific University. He formerly served in an executive
capacity for the Boeing Aircraft Company. Dr. Erisman's ideas on
ethical behavior can be further studied by going to www.ethix.org
Dr. Erisman has identified ten principles of highly ethical people.
They are presented here in somewhat adapted form.
Principle #1. Treat others as unique, valuable individuals. To treat others as unique individuals means that you recognize
the specific characteristics, interests, and needs of each
person. No two people are alike. Each person is to be considered
as valuable. This means that every human being has worth
and should be treated with respect and dignity.
Principle #2. Support each person's freedom, growth,
and development. Each of us is in a process of growing and developing.
Human beings change over time. We become more mature, more
capable. Do what you can to help those you work with experience
freedom and opportunity.
Principle #3. Show others respect by using their name when
you speak to them. This is especially important if you are
in a position of authority. If you are a teacher, or if you
are a manager, you should call people by their name when
you address them. People appreciate this, and they feel that
you are paying attention to them.
Principle #4. Model and encourage a balanced life of good
work and rest. Lead a life in which you balance your work
with rest, recreation, and fellowship. Encourage others you
work with to do the same. Try to find time each day to reflect
on the meaning of your life. Learn to balance work and play
because both are important.
Principle #5. Honor and respect other people's families.
This is very important for teachers and for those who work
closely with others. Always remember that each individual
also belongs to a family. Think of each person's family when
you work with him or her. Help others to feel good about
their families. Take opportunities to encourage family life.
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Principle #6. Protect the life, safety,
and health of others. Do what you can to make the place
you work a healthy, safe
place. Show consideration for the safety and health of
others. A place of work should be physically healthy and
emotionally
healthy. People are happier and more productive when they
feel secure and safe.
Principle #7. Do your part to contribute
to a workplace that is free of sexual harassment. Women
and children are often
taken advantage of in school and in the workplace. It is
inappropriate to bully others, to take advantage of your
authority, and to place at a disadvantage those who may
dependent on you for their work or study.
Principle #8. Be fair and just in all
matters. Each person with whom you work deserves fair treatment.
It is wrong to
show favoritism to some while denying favors to others.
This is especially important if you are in a position of
authority.
Democracy cannot work in the larger society unless it is
practiced by us in our daily lives as we work and play
with others.
Principle #9. Communicate honestly and
truthfully. In all situations be kind, firm, and honest.
Tell the truth
to those
with whom you work. Make it your practice to model honesty
to others. Behave honestly even in difficult situations
where it may be tempting not to tell the truth. Expect
others to
be honest in their dealings with you.
Principle #10. Develop a positive attitude
toward others. When other people accomplish good work,
support them. Encourage
them. Do not try to take credit for the good work of others.
Learn to appreciate the work of your colleagues or students.
Always think the best of others. Do not yield to envy.
Be a team player who wants the best for everyone.
Summary:
There is nothing magic about these principles. Actually,
they are rather practical. People who use them are more successful
in their work and in life in general. To apply them is a
matte of consciousness and practice. Practice them. Think
about them. Discuss them with your friends. You will find
that in time these principles will become habits. Remember
that we can improve only with practice. Make it your goal
to learn the principles and to apply them every chance you
get.
Questions to Discuss with Others:
- Which of the principles is the easiest for you to begin
applying immediately?
- Which of the principles do you think might be a challenge
for you?
- Can you think of someone you respect who uses many of these
principles in his/her daily life? Specifically, how would
you describe this
person?
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