Ethics as per Society of Human Resource Management

Commonly ethics is defined as principles that govern a persons’ behavior. I believe that the path to sound organizational ethics begins with a professional who leads the human resource function of that organization. That means HR professionals bear the responsibility of building and maintaining a foundation of ethics. The worlds largest and most predominant HR professional association ‘Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) code of ethics states;

“As HR professionals, we are responsible for adding value to the organizations we serve by contributing to the ethical success of those organizations”.

You can find more about SHRM code of ethics in https://www.shrm.org/pages/default.aspx

We accept professional responsibility for our individual decisions and actions. We are also advocating for the profession by engaging in activating that enhances its credibility and value.

From my perspective, there are three principles that frame human resource ethics.

Notably these principles share similarities but also differ from the SHRM codes of ethics. Let’s explore these principles one by one in detail. Looking at guidelines for how human resource professionals will apply this to their work.  

1.     Protecting rights:

Protecting employee rights means that human resource professionals consider the rights of individuals and their organization promote truth and build trust. Their intent is to build trust with individuals and within our organization by maximizing open communication, prioritizing confidentiality and ensuring employee rights are championed. Guidelines for protecting employee rights include ensuring honest communication with all parties, acquire and distribute information responsibly safeguarding and maintaining accurate human resource information and identifying and understanding employee rights.

2.     professional behavior:

Professional behavior referrers to the commitment of HR professionals to individual leadership and the highest standards of conduct. The intent of HR is to set the standard and be an example for others earning respect and increasing credibility and trust. Guidelines for professional behavior include; acting according to the highest standard of conduct, seeking and providing expert guidance, champion professional development for you and for others and refraining from using your position for personal benefit.

3.     Promote justice:

Promoting justice means that HR professionals are responsible for encouraging and fostering fairness for all employees in our organization. HR intent is to create and sustain an environment that fosters individuals and the organization to reach their full potential. Guidelines for justice includes respecting the unique and intrinsic worth of every individual, treating people with dignity and compassion to foster a trusting environment ensuring everyone has the opportunity to develop, grow and succeed and finally championing equity through policy procedures and practice.

Reference:

Society for Human Resource Management. (2014) Code of Ethics. [Online] Available from: https://www.shrm.org/about-shrm/pages/code-of-ethics.aspx. [Accessed 22nd February 2020].