A Business Code of Conduct for Making A Difference

In military basic training we are given a small book called the Uniform Code of Military Justice, ordered to study it, and then taught and tested on its contents. I thought of this because tomorrow is Independence Day. The day is meaningful for the Declaration that was signed by a small number of colonists throwing off the yoke of imperialism. Gentle as it was made by the British, we naturally resist restraints placed on our freedoms. With those freedoms come responsibility, both personal and societal.

So in honor of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, I assume my societal responsibilities today by suggesting that we must take better care of our freedom. And since this is a business blog, my message is directed at those responsible for their businesses. Humbly I post this Uniform Code of Business Conduct, which if followed in some form thereof will lead us to carry out our business societal responsibilities in a way that preserves freedom and human dignity.

Uniform Code of Business Conduct

1. Do no harm, ever.
2. Provide products and services designed to make lives better.
3. Charge a fair price based on value that fulfills wants and needs.
4. Create an environment that protects the environment.
5. Never tell a lie or half-a-truth.
6. Always put people above profit.
7. Encourage freedom of expression.
8. Recognize no one as more important than another.
9. Practice fairness built on respect and dignity.
10. Create happiness.

Feel free to share, if you think I offer something useful and of value. And begin the conversation. Spread the word that business is for good, not for evil. Ask questions. Listen to the answers. And tell us what you think of this list. Is it worthy of discussion? It such a code worth pursuing?