Business ethics are moral principles that guide the way a business behaves. The same principles that determine an individual’s actions also apply to business. This involves distinguishing between “right” and “wrong” and then making the “right” choice. It is relatively easy to identify unethical business practices. For example, companies should not use child labour. They should not unlawfully use copyrighted materials and processes. They should not engage in bribery.

However, it is not always easy to create similar hard-and-fast definitions of good ethical practice. A company must make a competitive return for its shareholders and treat its employees fairly.  A company also has wider responsibilities. It should minimise any harm to the environment and work in ways that do not damage the communities in which it operates.

Learning to stretch our thinking skills is integral to accelerating our development. This is a really important part of the learning process, and gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and show progression in your Apprenticeship.

Here is a challenge that, should you choose to accept, will help you to develop critical thinking, evaluation skills and encourage creativity.

Business Ethics, sustainability and corporate social responsibility have increasingly formed a large part of an organisation's culture and values. Now more than ever the decisions brands make now may just determine the survival of their business.  Customers are taking more of an interest in all of these areas and their buying habits are often swayed by the integrity of a company and it's conduct. 

Challenge 1

Select an organisation that has acted questionably and therefore had a consequence to their profits, customer perception and overall reputation. 

There are many examples you could use here Facebook, Tesco, Amazon, Starbucks etc..  There is an interesting article on the left, that may give you some additional ideas 'The Ugly Truth About Unethical Business Practices' 

Analyse the issues they have had and the action they took and consider how these might have been avoided. Make recommendations that would support the company in moving forward to rebuild or mitigate future damage, justifying your recommendations. Discuss with your Talent Coach justifying your conclusion and recommendations. 

Update your Learning Journal in OneFile with your evaluation and your reflections ready to discuss with your Talent Coach at your next review.

Challenge 2

Identify a task you have recently completed at work. Map the steps of the task mapping the areas that specifically supported professional values and standards from your professional body or regulator. Analyse the potential risk areas within the task and make one recommendation that will minimise a risk area. Discuss with your Talent Coach justifying your conclusion and recommendations.

Remember to update your training record with your reflections and conclusions.  You will find this useful at End Point Assessment.