1. What is the purpose of a code of conduct?
2.
List six things that would be included in a code of conduct.
3. Imagine your team runs an organisation that supplies sports goods. In your code of conduct, would you include guidance on whether to offer promotional items as part of your marketing strategy?
4. Would you allow your employees to accept gifts from suppliers as part of their marketing strategy?
5. Think of two reasons why the CEO requires employees to adhere to the code of conduct. 6.
If you were to draft a code of conduct; give 4 examples of items, you would include.
6.1. From the examples above, link the two principles of ethics that informed the code of conduct. 6.2. Do you think that there is a relationship between having a code of conduct and successful business
operations? 6.3. In your opinion, does having a code of conduct have any implications for the organisation? (It may be positive or negative). Explain your answer.
Attach the following evidence to your portfolio:
1. The purpose of a code of conduct is to establish guidelines, expectations, and standards of behavior for individuals within an organization. It helps to ensure ethical conduct, maintain a positive work environment, and promote fairness and professionalism.
2. Six things that could be included in a code of conduct are:
- Respecting and promoting diversity and inclusivity.
- Prohibiting discrimination and harassment.
- Maintaining confidentiality and protecting sensitive information.
- Encouraging honesty and integrity in all actions.
- Avoiding conflicts of interest and acting in the best interest of the organization.
- Promoting a safe and healthy work environment.
3. Yes, in the code of conduct for a sports goods organization, it would be appropriate to include guidance on offering promotional items as part of the marketing strategy. This guidance can outline the rules and limits for offering promotional items, ensuring they are distributed responsibly and in adherence to legal and ethical standards.
4. The acceptability of employees accepting gifts from suppliers would depend on the specific guidelines and policies outlined in the code of conduct. Generally, it is recommended to have policies in place that limit the value and frequency of gifts to prevent any conflicts of interest or favoritism.
5. Two reasons why a CEO may require employees to adhere to the code of conduct are:
- To maintain the organization's reputation and public image by ensuring ethical behavior and legal compliance.
- To foster a positive and inclusive work culture that prioritizes honesty, integrity, and respect.
6. When drafting a code of conduct, four examples of items that could be included are:
- Prohibition of discrimination or harassment based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation.
- Guidelines for appropriate use of company resources, including computers, internet, and company time.
- Expectations for professional behavior, such as dress code and punctuality.
- Standards for maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive company and customer information.
6.1. The two principles of ethics that these examples can be linked to are fairness and integrity. The code of conduct aims to ensure fair treatment of all individuals within the organization and promotes honesty, transparency, and trustworthiness.
6.2. Yes, there is a relationship between having a code of conduct and successful business operations. A code of conduct helps to establish a positive and ethical work environment, which can improve employee morale, productivity, and loyalty. It also helps to minimize conflicts, legal risks, and reputational damage that could negatively impact a business.
6.3. Having a code of conduct can have positive implications for the organization. It sets clear expectations and guidelines for behavior, promotes ethical decision-making, and helps to build a strong organizational culture. It can increase trust among employees, stakeholders, and customers, resulting in better relationships and improved business outcomes. However, it can also impose restrictions and require additional effort to enforce and educate employees about the code, which could be seen as negative implications. Ultimately, the overall impact of a code of conduct depends on how it is implemented and embraced within the organization.