Business Ethics

Work Ethics

1. Definition:

a) Work

i) Work is an activity which serves economic functions. In exchange for such

Work income is provided to support self and family.

ii) Work serves several social functions- opportunities to meet people develop
friendship and social interchange.

iii) Work provides a social status.

iv) Work is an important source of identity and self-esteem and a means for self
Actualization.

Note : Without work , individual's experience is meaningless and powerless .

b) Ethics means a set of moral principles- a code of conduct. The members of a

group tend to adopt a set of rules of behavior for the establishment of good order.

c) Work ethics refers to certain accepted norms of behavior governing the conduct
of a group of persons involved in work-situation to achieve certain desired
objectives .

2. Work ethics at different levels:

a) Basic level- It is about discipline, behaving with respect and dignity in relation to
sub-ordinates, colleagues and superiors , staying at work place during working
hours , not wasting time- leading to strong work orientation.

b) Highest level-:- It is about commitment and accountability.

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 c) General-

i) Protecting the interests of the organization

ii) To perform one's j ob with devotion and hard work .

Conclusion:

Work ethics refers to the strength of commitment of individuals and dedication to hard work
.

Work ethics embraces work responsibility, conscience towards work , ethical work conduct.

3. 4 P's of work ethics:

Employment is a contract. An employee will be entitled to receive or take from

organization- a package against what he gives to the organization by way of
physical and mental efforts leading to concrete tangible results.

P- Pay

P- Prospects

P - Promotion

P - Performance

4. Improving Work Ethics :

a) To impart man-making education- by which character is formed , strength of

mind is increased , and by which one can stand on one 's feet.

b) Organization can create strong work culture through appropriate systems- as

well as rewards and penalties. Top persons need to set examples.

c) In-house practices- Commitment, accountability and taking responsibility can be

inculcated through various practices such as role clarity , performance evaluation
objectively.

d) Involvement of Employees- Workers’ participation in formulating policies and

practices and management.