The Influence of the Organization on Unethical Behavior

Document Type:Essay

Subject Area:Accounting

Document 1

Codes of conduct in an organization on the other hand are the set rules and regulations that outline the expected social practices and responsibilities for every individual in a particular organization. It is different from the organizational culture in that it is an agreed upon way of behavior that does not just arise from routine practice. Both are equally important in encouraging ethical behavior in an organization. Importance In times of crisis, it is possible that employees in a firm or even the employers may start to engage in unethical behavior. However, there is need to realize that in proper ethical business practice there is more to look at besides the financial status of the organization. It is these two that ensure that employees finish their work in time and exhibit honesty and integrity in their work (Schwartz 2001, pg 248).

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When employees are ethical, they meet the required standards of the organization in terms of the quality of their work which also enhance the reputation of the company. It is therefore important that there is ethical organizational culture. This can be achieved by adhering to a certain code of ethics. The leaders in the organization can encourage this through rewarding the employees who exhibit the best behavior that is in line with the codes of conduct of the organization. They are not reminded of their responsibility in ensuring that they adhere to the organization’s code of conduct. The line between what is right and wrong will blur if leaders do not design policies that help the employees to keep ethics at the top of their minds.

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Solutions to unethical behavior in organizations In order to foster ethical behavior in the organization, certain changes are important. One is the creation of strict policies and organization practices that the employees have to adhere to. The organization should go further to do research and develop processes that will be helpful in the definition, identification and reporting of ethical violations (Stead, Worrell, & Stead 1990, pg 235. Additionally, they should be able to follow the rules themselves before asking that the employees adhere to them. Many employees tend to emulate the behavior exhibited by their seniors more than they follow the instructions that they are given. It does not take much for the employees to recognize a leader who walks the talk in maintaining ethical standards.

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