(GBA) (feedback2)

Discuss ethical components of communication and provide examples of positive ethical efforts that have been getting attention

Writer 1

A strong code of ethics is necessary in all components of our lives. Likewise in business, all areas of interaction and communication should reflect the right way to do things. Every person we interact with is important. We should make certain that we treat each person with the utmost respect and courtesy, just like we want to be treated. I have always had two theories about interacting with others:

What we do affects those around us, just like dominoes. Although we are individual, we have the ability to either support or bring down those around us.

People are like a mirror. You cannot get back what you do not send out. If you want to receive kind, courteous, respectable treatment, make sure to send it out first.

Do not forget that honesty and accountability operate on a two-way street. Make sure that you do not just request credit for shorted items, for example. Be sure to have the integrity to contact your customer and notify them that you received more than you were charged for, as well. In interacting with co-workers or subordinate employees, be sure to give them the credit or praise for their great ideas and works. These necessary ethical behaviors establish trust in your business relationships, which is vital.

Dominion Power, an electric cooperative, has earned my trust by being by publically praising and encouraging their employees’ community service. I first viewed this on television, but have also read about this highly regarded policy on their website. I am impressed by their strong code of ethics. Here is a quote from their website regarding volunteering, “Volunteering is at the heart of Dominion’s community programs and is deeply embedded in our company’s history.” (Dominion, n.d.)

Writer 2

Ethical decisions are becoming more relevant each day. In order to protect yourself, your company and your customers, a code of ethics needs to be made very clear. It also needs to be adhered to. It can not be just words on a framed piece of paper hanging on a wall or tucked away in the company’s employee handbook. Ethics includes many things. It can be as simple as using bias free language. Include all audiences by showing no discrimination in regard to sex, physical condition, race, ethnicity, religion, age or other factors. This helps keep goodwill no matter who the contact is with.

A positive attitude goes a long way as well. Delta Airlines is providing day long seminars to focus on positive communication. The training teaches agents to Be Positive, Be Honest, Recognize the Customer’s Feelings, Don’t Apologize for Rules, Don’t Place Blame. Work to help customers solve problems as much as possible. (Locker & Kienzler, 2013) This may not seem like it has anything to do with ethics but in reality, ethics can be as simple as set of principles to go by.

One industry that has put a bad taste in many people’s mouths is the auto repair and sales sector. These companies are having to re-evaluate their ethical practices. In the past, it has been especially hard for women to get fair, ethical treatment. Women have become more independent and are now outnumbering men so many companies have had to change their ways. To belong to the Automotive Service Association (ASA), owners and managers must agree to adhere to the ASA’s Code of Ethics which was created especially for the industry. If followed, it stands to be a positive influence by keeping communications open and treating all people in a fair, ethical manner. (ASA's Code of Ethics, 2015)