Business Ethics - Take the High Road, It's Easier to Spot Trouble

Is it me or does it seem like there is another news story about a corporate scandal or political ethics probe about once a week? It makes me wonder how any consumer can trust any of us business owners.

I know that I'm subjected to lots of business scams every week ranging from the Nigerian bank account scam to people posing as suppliers trying to trick a staff member in to 'placing an order' for inflated supplies.

I also see competitors trying to cut corners, leaving out information that their clients should be told and everybody seems to be trying to be so politically correct, making sure that they don't offend someone that their ethics actually has be called into question. What do you or I as business owners stand for, how are we different from the homogenized masses?

In marketing it's called a USP, Unique Selling Proposition. A USP is the thing or things that makes your service or product so unique that a client sees that they have to buy from you. I believe that as business owners we should all have an ethical code that's as clearly defined and promoted.

I'm sure that this idea will scare off those that are prone to short cuts and afraid to stand up and take a position. I actually know a business owner who won't support certain charities because of the potential way some customers might view his philanthropy...what!!! It's your business, do with it what you will. For every client who is offended by your choices, there are several who will want to do business with you because of your position or simply because they can trust you for taking a position in the first place.

Also, when confronted by a situation that causes you to stop and think about the ethical position it might cause for you...listen to the voice. If the situation makes you stop and think, there's a reason why. I know I've left business on the table, I've left deals on the table and I've not grown as fast as I could have if I'd taken shorts cuts made available to me. I've also never had a satellite truck in my driveway or been the subject of an ethics probe either.

By taking the high road we all have the ability to see more obstacles and there are more people willing to help us navigate any rough waters we encounter along the way.

Use your position in the community wisely, take the high road, stand up for something and make a difference...we could use the change.