Professional Values and Ethics Paper
Lisa Qualls and Henry M. Rauch
Gen 200
July 10, 2011
Diskell Lang
Professional Values and Ethics Paper
The definition of values and ethics has been provided as well as the identification of three sources of professional values and ethics. The question at hand is this: How can professional values and ethics influence career success? In any workplace, there is an expectation for behavior and compliance to rules, either written or unwritten. Upon hire, many companies require employees to sign code of conduct and confidentiality statements. These documents outline formal internally enforced sets of rules and behaviors that must be followed so as to protect the integrity of an organization, its professionals and clients. Often times, professional values and ethics can extend beyond the workplace and reach into the personal life of an employee. It is vital for employees to be aware of and govern their actions so as to avoid reproach. Many employees have fallen victim to job terminations based on actions deemed inappropriate as well as comments made on online public forums about employees and clients, also deemed inappropriate by the company. Many organizations are embroiled in litigation due to unlawful and unauthorized release of sensitive information by employees. Organizations regard their employees as an extension or a representative whether on or off duty. Organizational leadership has a responsibility of upholding these defined standards of professional behaviors by showing respect, promoting trust and being honest. When management teams resort to unethical behaviors, such as requiring employees to embellish services or to simply lie to customers or clients, the effects can be detrimental to business operations and employee morale. In contrast, some organizations are successful as a result of having cultures established on deceit and embellishment. Examples would be law offices and companies promoting...