Episode 16 Summary: How Do You Create a Shared Understanding of Workplace Ethics in Global Organisations?

Welcome to the latest edition of the Steps to Change podcast, where this week we’re delving into the intricate world of workplace ethics and their pivotal role in shaping organisational culture.

Your host, Allen Liedkie, is joined by the insightful Simon Thomson to explore the nuances of ethical behaviour within professional settings. Together, they unpack the layers of ethical decision-making, from the personal dilemmas we face, such as reporting a colleague’s CV inaccuracies, to the broader challenges of navigating ethical practices in diverse cultural landscapes.

This episode sheds light on how ethical considerations are more than just rule-following but are integral to fostering inclusive, transparent, and equitable work environments. Read on to learn more about the significance of upholding modern workplace ethics and how they can be implemented in global organisations.

Workplace ethics encompass the principles and values that guide behaviour and decision-making within a professional environment. These ethics are fundamental to fostering a culture of integrity, respect, and trust among employees and management alike. At the core, workplace ethics revolve around understanding what is right and wrong within the organisational context and applying this understanding to everyday actions and decisions.

The importance of workplace ethics cannot be overstated. They serve as a foundation for creating an inclusive and equitable work environment where all employees feel valued and respected. Ethical practices in the workplace encourage transparency and accountability, which are crucial for building trust both within the organisation and with external stakeholders, including customers and partners.

Moreover, a strong ethical framework within an organisation promotes a positive corporate image and reputation. This is not only beneficial for attracting top talent who seek to work in environments that align with their own values but also for retaining employees by ensuring a safe and supportive work atmosphere.

Ethics in the workplace also play a vital role in risk management. Ethical dilemmas, such as the decision to report a colleague who has lied on their CV or navigating the grey areas of accepting gifts from clients, are not uncommon. How these situations are handled can have significant implications for the organisation, potentially avoiding legal issues and financial losses.

In essence, workplace ethics are about more than just compliance with laws and regulations. They are about creating a culture where employees are encouraged to discuss and navigate ethical dilemmas openly and confidently. This leads to better decision-making, enhances employee morale, and ultimately contributes to the success and sustainability of the organisation.

Navigating workplace ethics in global organisations involves understanding and reconciling a broad spectrum of cultural norms, legal frameworks, and business practices. This complexity arises from the diverse cultural contexts in which multinational companies operate, where what’s considered ethical in one region might not align with the standards or expectations in another.

One of the primary challenges is establishing a cohesive set of ethical values that resonates across all regions while respecting local customs and laws. For instance, the concept of gifts and hospitality can vary significantly around the world. In some cultures, the exchange of gifts is a crucial part of building business relationships, while in others, it might be perceived as a conflict of interest or even bribery.

Moreover, ethical dilemmas can often appear deceptively simple but can be highly nuanced upon closer examination. For example, issues like facilitating payments or “grease payments” to expedite services can be a norm in certain regions, reflecting an ingrained part of the local business landscape. These practices, while potentially seen as unethical or illegal in other parts of the world, might be deeply embedded in the local way of conducting business.

Global organisations must, therefore, engage in continuous dialogue and education to foster a unified ethical culture. This involves not only setting global ethical standards but also allowing for local adaptations that respect cultural differences.

It’s about creating a space where employees feel safe to discuss and navigate ethical issues, encouraging open conversations, and ensuring that ethical decision-making is a collective responsibility, reflecting a shared commitment to integrity, regardless of geographical boundaries.

Implementing a shared understanding of workplace ethics within global organisations requires a structured approach that acknowledges the complexities of diverse work cultures while fostering a cohesive ethical framework.

Our four-phase Steps to Change methodology proves effective in this endeavour, beginning with the ‘See It’ phase, which involves reflecting on current behaviours and ethical challenges through relatable scenarios. This phase aims to hold up a mirror to the organisation, revealing the real issues and sparking dialogue among employees.

The ‘Own It’ phase encourages individuals to acknowledge their perspectives and biases, understanding that ethical issues often have multiple dimensions. This recognition is crucial for moving beyond surface-level solutions and addressing the underlying complexities of ethical dilemmas.

Transitioning to the ‘Change It’ phase, the focus shifts to actionable steps. Here, employees engage in discussions and role-plays to practice navigating ethical challenges, developing skills for constructive dialogue, and understanding the nuances of creating a speak-up culture. This phase is about equipping individuals with the tools to address ethical issues proactively and collaboratively.

Finally, the ‘Live It’ phase emphasises embedding these ethical considerations into the fabric of the organisation’s culture. Continuous engagement, leadership endorsement, and regular reflection ensure that ethical discussions remain a vital part of everyday business practices. This long-term commitment helps to solidify a shared understanding of ethics, ensuring that it permeates all levels of the organisation and is reflected in every action and decision.

Through this structured approach, global organisations can cultivate a unified ethical culture that respects diversity while upholding a common set of values and principles, fostering an environment of integrity, trust, and mutual respect.