Memo: Ethical Communications, Essay Example

The importance of ethical communication in the workplace cannot be underestimated. The success of an organization depends on the communication among each level of our stakeholders.  Creating written documents which are safe, honest and true is a practice this organization supports and is in alignment with our corporate governance. Ethical communication shapes our reputation and provides transparency in our business behavior. Behaving ethically entails honesty and fairness, integrity and concern for others. Business accountability in internal and external documentation demonstrates not only high morals and ethics, but also keeps the organization compliant with legal mandates for business honesty. I would like to provide each of you with a few key points in ethical communication and appropriate ways to ensure this philosophy.

For those of you who are not aware, all organizations have a legal and ethical responsibility for transparency and accountability under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This law was enacted to ensure all organizations and businesses abide by proper financial reporting. It is the corporation’s responsibility to comply with this law and enforce proper procedures and processes. It is an individual’s responsibility to maintain accuracy and truthfulness in all work. Precise and honest record keeping will prevent facts distortion and inappropriate reporting.

Ethical behavior guided by a code of ethics simply is choosing right over wrong. In business just knowing right from wrong does not ensure the right thing is easy to recognize or perform.  Therefore, we must all pay close attention to our communications. Plagiarism and copyrighting are wrong as we are all aware. It is also unethical to communicate to another in a harassing or discriminating manner. All documents pertaining to personnel are private and privileged information which cannot be shared with others. These documents contain personal identification and facts which are private. I encourage and charge you to keep these key points in your day-to-day practices. Remember — All written documents create a legal and ethical trail!

I would also like to bring your attention to ethical communication in relation to electronics correspondence. In this day and age communication is performed through e-mail messages. As you create e-mails remember the importance of e-mail communication etiquette.  As you correspond with your peers and customers remember to complete your thoughts and address your message with respect and truthfulness for the reader. Keep in mind the diversity of our workplace and the various ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Documentation style will reflect your ethical standards.  I urge each of you to consider your personal values and how they relate to your ethical communications. You can make a difference by acting in accordance with high morals and ethics; demonstrating the invaluable influence of ethical communication with others.  We must refrain from becoming complacent in our communication efforts and remember the importance of communicating ethically in the business world. Above all, your personal value system will not only influence your actions but will be an example for others.

Thank you for your efforts in creating and maintaining high ethical communication!