Promoting Ethical Behavior

There is not one profession or industry that does not have its own understanding of what is ethical. Whether it is sports, the arts or even politics, there is not one that lacks a general awareness of what type of behavior speaks to the matter of ethics. I am not necessarily referring to what is legal. That is
clear-cut. One either breaks the law or doesn't. Ethics, generally, falls into a more gray area. One, for instance, can be unethical but still be law-abiding. In golf, one player could constantly interrupt another just before they tee-off, but that does not mean they are violating any rules. It does mean they are conducting themselves in an unethical manner.

The world of business is another where ethics has become an important element. In fact, business ethics has even emerged as its own area or field of focus simply because of the level of importance people place on it. Business ethics refers to conducting oneself in a morally proper way in the realm of a business setting. Being truthful, open  and fair are matters of ethics. Thus, following those traits would be reason to refer to one as an ethical business man or woman. Being described that way, of course, would be a good thing. Sadly, in the cynical times in which we live, it is not enough to be ethical. Nowadays, businesses need to do what they can to let others know they are ethical.

That is too bad since, ideally, one likes to assume their ethical or "good" behavior speaks for itself and does not need to be flaunted. Yet here we are. More and more, public relations types are putting together campaigns designed to showcase a business' positive ways. This is the result of companies that do not behave ethically. The banking and auto industry are two examples of where entities have behaved unethically. the public has been burned enough to where companies are almost assumed to be unethical unless proved otherwise. Professional communicators can and do showcase that "proof." it is too bad such work is necessary.