Pointing the Way to Integrity in Business
It's sad to say but in this day and age people are more suspicious than trusting and having the reputation of being an honest and fair business is more valuable than ever. Business integrity involves being reliable and trustworthy over an extended period of time, winning over customers business by being the kind of company they want to deal with on a regular basis. To build business integrity consider the following principles as laid out by Roger Moment:
1. Recognize that customers/clients want to do business with a company they can trust; when trust is at the core of a company, it is easy to recognize. Trust defined is assured reliance on the character, ability, strength, or truth of a business.
2. For continuous improvement of a company, the leader of an organization must be willing to open up to ideas for betterment. Ask for opinions and feedback from both customers and team members and your company will continue to grow.
3. Regardless of the circumstances, do everything in your power to gain the trust of past customer’s and clients, particularly if something has gone awry. Do what you can to reclaim any lost business by honoring all commitments and obligations.
4. Re-evaluate all print materials including small business advertising, brochures and other business documents making sure they are clear, precise and professional; most important make sure they do not misrepresent or misinterpret.
5. Remain involved in community-related issues and activities thereby demonstrating that your business is a responsible community contributor. In other words, stay involved.
6. Take a hands-on approach in regard to accounting and record keeping, not only as a means of gaining a better feel for the progress of your company, but as a resource for any “questionable “ activities; gaining control of accounting and record keeping allows you to end any dubious activities promptly.
7. Treat others with the utmost of respect. Regardless of differences, positions, titles, ages, or other types of distinctions, always treat others with professional respect and courtesy.
While it may be easier at times, resist the urge to cut corners or shrug off customers. Being known as an ethical business is the kind of reputation that is built over years, but can be destroyed in seconds.
