Group Mentoring, Group 2 Session 3
Senior Robert Szeluga met with his group of Leadership students and executives for their Group Mentoring session this week. The key points for the discussion are below:
Establishing a Code of Ethics
- Mission statements & an understanding of values are an excellent starting point for an individual/organization to establish a code of ethics
- Actions of leadership should set the example for the rest of the group/organization
Ethical Decision Making Process
- Question the legality of your options. If something is not legal, it is strongly advisable to avoid that option.
- Trust that “gut feeling” when faced with an ethical dilemma.
- If this was on the cover of the New York Times, what would it look like for both you and the company?
- Make sure you have all relevant information before making the decision. Examine all options before rushing to find an answer.
- Do not be afraid to ask for a coworker’s or boss’s opinion on a certain issue.
Cultural Differences
- Be conscious of the laws in other countries. What is legal in the US may not be legal overseas
- In addition, understand the cultures and customs of other countries. See “Women in Management” example where overseas businesses refuse to deal with women at the negotiation table
Other Notes
- Always communicate with your boss. If you need to leave early, ask in advance. Some workers come in an hour early so they can leave to pick up kids from school or attend functions.
- Avoid making exceptions to the rules. One exception or unethical decision can lead to a trend of unethical behavior, which eventually avalanches down on you and your company
- When your values differ from those of your company, it is important to present your side in a way that is fact-based. Hard evidence and figures are a great way to convince
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