Maybe my perspective is “old school,” but I think minimum requirements for running any business is to do it ethically, ensure that etiquette is observed, and that all employees are treated equally. Today, the ethics of some people and companies are highly questionable (overcharging customers; sabotage; conflicts of interest), public figures are dropping F bombs, and equality seems to be a dream of the past. I think data show that ethics, etiquette, and equality are still essential aspects of a business that people want to work for and that customers want to do business with. See if you agree…
Ethics
For businesses, ethics are principles and values used in decision-making and conduct. Key words, like honesty, integrity, and fairness, are hallmarks of ethical behavior. Recently, MarketBeat released the 2025 survey of the most ethical companies in America. Topping the list were familiar names: Hershey Company, The Campbell’s Company, Burt’s Bees, Ocean Spray, and CVS Health.
Why does being an ethical company matter?
- It may result in higher profits. The research I found was all over the place on this, with some saying maybe a little more profitability for ethical companies; others say substantially more. None said ethical companies earn less.
- It can help sustain businesses in the long run. Ethical companies avoid fines, penalties, and legal issues. Unethical behavior may not be illegal, but it can run afoul of rules and regulations, which creates problems and drains resources.
- It creates loyalty in employees and customers. People like to work with ethical businesses.
Etiquette
Business etiquette is an umbrella term that includes not only business manners in the workplace (including business dining), but also business communications, business attire, and more. How many times have you been in a meeting when an attendee gets a phone call…and takes it right there and then? How many times have business associates shown up late to a meeting with you? These situations demonstrate poor business etiquette.
Basically, without reading Emily Post’s Etiquette cover to cover, etiquette is about being respectful for others. In a business context, it means showing this respect by the way in which you interact with employees, colleagues, and other business associates. By using good business etiquette, you show your own integrity. As Theodore Roosevelt said: “Politeness is a sign of dignity, not subservience.”
The value of good business etiquette to your company can be enormous. It can improve the company culture and make employees feel more comfortable in the workplace. Perhaps even more important, good business etiquette can translate into better business relationships, which in turn, helps your business grow.
Equality
DEI may be officially DOA due to changes in government policy, but this doesn’t mean that companies should no longer strive to provide equal opportunity to job applicants and employees. Clearly, they should, and here are 3 reasons why:
- It’s the law. Under federal laws, private employers can’t discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. States also have anti-discrimination laws.
- It’s only fair. And being fair is the ethical thing to do.
- It improves employee morale and boosts productivity. When there’s a perception that things aren’t equal—there’s favoritism or other unequal treatment—employees see it clearly. When things are fair, employees are less stressed; they feel and work better.
Final thought
Ethics, etiquette, and equality, taken together, are behaviors on a higher plain.
As Mia Farrow said: “I’m going to take the high road because the low road is too crowded.”
Join her and see your business flourish.
For additional reading about company culture, see this list of blogs.
