As per Wikipedia a code of conduct is a set of rules outlining the social norms, religious rules and responsibilities of and or proper practice for an individual.
Generally, the code of conduct is written for employees of a company, who protect the business and informs the employee of the company’s expectation. It is important even for the small companies to have a code of conduct so that employees are aware of the company's expectation of them in terms of behavior. The below-explained code of conduct sample outlines the major guidelines to be followed by an employee.
Code of conduct is important in order to make conducive culture in the organization, however, code of conduct alone cannot help. It is also the management responsibility to walk the talk. Senior leaders must manifest ethics in attitude and behavior. The employees of an organization big or small must be well trained in implementing the right conduct in their professional work and behavior. It must also be continuously observed by senior management to check whether the code of conduct policies needs any improvement or not.
Simple reading and signing of the code of conduct is not enough. The actual proof that code of conduct is being conducted and followed professionally is seen when employees are comfortable sharing any concern and with the confidence, that action will be taken by the company.
According to Investopedia a code of ethics may be explained as:
A code of ethics is a guide of principles designed to help professionals conduct business honestly and with integrity. A code of ethics document may outline the mission and values of the business or organization, how professionals are supposed to approach problems, the ethical principle based on organizational core values, and the standard to which the professional is held. A code of ethics also referred to as "Ethical code", may encompass areas such as business ethics, a code of professional practice and an employee code of conduct.
Various examples of the code of ethics are the compliance based code of ethics, value-based code of ethics, code of ethics among professionals etc.
Having a code of conduct defines the values, responsibilities, and promises a company has. If an employee has a query related to ethics, it can be answered only by such documented code of conduct. Though it is not possible to capture or answer every situation wherein ethical judgment is required to be answered by the code of conduct policy but most such situations have been tried to be included in the policy.
Whether it is legally mandatory or not an organization must have a code of conduct. It means to have guidelines so that the employees know what is expected out of them. A well-written code of conduct must have values, mission, vision, and principles to be followed and they all must be linked with the standard behavior of an employee. An ideal code of conduct can act as a benchmark against which the performance of employees in terms of ideal behavior can be measured.
A code of conduct acts as a guidance tool when an employee face problem in making an ethical decision. It can also act as a reference point which can help employees to locate documents, services and other resources related to ethics within the organization.
The most important purpose a code of conduct serves:
Disclaimer: The content prepared has been created with the greatest care. These policies have been prepared for a sample. However, for accuracy and completeness, hrhelpboard.com cannot guarantee. The user is therefore requested to professionally check or to have professionally checked the suitability of all content for its use.
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INDEX
1. Purpose
2. Scope
3. Clauses covered under the Policy
3.1 Dress Code
3.2 Cyber security
3.3 Internet Usage
3.4 Cell Phone
3.5 Company’s Email
3.6 Social Media
3.7 Conflict of Interest
3.8 Confidential information
3.9 Fair Dealing
3.10 Company assets
3.11 Professionalism
3.12 Financial information
3.13 Gifts and other benefits
3.14 Harassment
3.15 Compliance with Laws and agreement:
3.16 Fraud
3.17 Bribe
3.18 Charitable contribution
3.19 Transacting with the third party
3.20 Relationship at work
3.21 Lobbying
3.22 Improper opportunity
3.23 Records and Audit
3.24 Accounting Practice
3.25 Reporting to unethical and illegal behavior
3.26 Penalties for failure to comply
4. Responsibilities in following code of conduct:
5. Revision of the policy
6. Explanation of the policy
Purpose: The purpose of the code of conduct policy is to define guidelines regarding employee behavior with respect to their supervisor, colleagues and organization as a whole.
Scope: This policy applies to all employees of the organization.
Clauses under the corporate code of conduct:
3.1 Dress Code
Our Company follows the dress code. However, an employee position may also inform how they should dress up. If an employee is in the marketing department wherein meeting client and customer is a regular practice in such case employee is expected to follow a formal dress code. Employee is also expected to come well dressed and clean.
3.2 Cyber security:
It is necessary to define guidelines for the use of the computer, phones, internet usage, social media to protect the assets and to enhance security.
3.3 Internet Usage:
The company provides internet to employees basically for business purpose. However, occasionally it can be used for a personal purpose, to the point; it is not obstructing normal job responsibilities of employees. There are points which are to be followed while using the company's internet.
3.4 Cell Phone:
Use of cell phone is a necessity today. We as a company allow the use of cell phone for business purpose or personal purpose. However, few points to be kept in mind which are:
3.5 Company’s Email:
As per code of conduct policy at the workplace use of email is being guided as follows:
1. Use corporate email id for business purpose: The use of email for the official purpose can be without any limitation. An employee can go to the company's newsletter and other services required for professional growth.
2. Use for the personal purpose: Company's email can be used for the personal purpose as far as it is safe for the company's server. It must not have spasm and an employee should not use it for sending confidential information belonging to corporate.
3. An employee should implement the model code of conduct for use of emails.
The general expectation regarding the use of email is as follows:
3.6 Social Media:
The company provides access to social media for its employees. Code of conduct for employees defines the use of social media. Generally, social media can be used both for the personal and professional purpose.
Certain guidelines to be followed by the employee while using social media on company premises:
Official use of social media:
Following the guidelines mentioned under "code of conduct at work” are compulsory to be followed while using social media for official use.
3.7 Conflict of Interest:
Conflict of interest arises when any personal benefit from another source interfere with the employee's responsibility towards the company. Examples of conflict of interest under the code of conduct policy can be explained as:
Accepting any kind of bribes etc from a third party source. A conflicting kind of situation happens when an employee takes some action which interferes with the normal working of the employee within the organization. Conflict of interest also arises when an employee or any immediate member accept something from a competitor or third party basis his/her position.
Some situations have been explained wherein the conflict of interest is observed:
a. Simultaneous employment: It implies that an employee is working side by side with a competitor, supplier, and customer along with the company. It is generally not allowed to work as a consultant or board member until unless permitted by the management of the company you are currently employed with.
b. Money or compensation from other sources: Any kind of money or compensation must not be allowed to be taken from competitor, supplier or customer other than the company you are currently working with.
c. Gifts: Acceptance of gifts from the competitor, customer etc. Which are given with an aim to influence any person’s action etc. should not be accepted. Offering/ receiving /giving any such gift is an example under the conflict of interest.
d. Employment of a relative: As per the company’s code of ethics any employee is hired, promoted in the company basis merit. There is no phenomenon of nepotism, favoritism, etc with the company. A relative is someone who is related by blood or marriage within the third degree to an employee. Before employing a relative in the company the following points must be taken into account:
e. Workplace visitors: The code of conduct for employees also says that if an employee wishes to invite a visitor at the workplace it is necessary that permission is taken from HR and immediate reporting manager. While visiting the premises visitors are requested to give complete details in the entry register and carry an identity proof with them. They will receive a company pass to enter the premises and must return the company passes on exit.
f. Corporate opportunity: An employee is expected to advance the legitimate interest of the company whenever an opportunity to advance arises. This is done while following the Professional code of ethics. Employees are therefore guided to prohibit the following:
3.8 Confidential information:
Employees of the company to maintain the confidentiality of information which is not to be shared outside as it might be harmful to the company and gainful for the competitor.
Sometimes confidential information is shared with senior management basis their position. Such information when entrusted must not be shared in public. Disclosure of confidential information can be done only when permitted by senior management or bylaws to do so.
3.9 Fair Dealing:
One of the examples of the code of ethics is to deal rightly with employees, suppliers, contractors, customers etc. No one is allowed under the code of conduct policy to take unfair advantage of anyone through manipulation, abuse of privileged information, misrepresentation of material facts or any other unfair dealing practice.
3.10 Company assets:
Company assets should be used with caution. There must not be any wastage, misuse of company assets as it results in loss of company's profitability. All business assets shall be used only for the legitimate business purpose.
3.11 Professionalism:
The employees are expected to follow the Professional code of ethics under which they must behave professionally in their work and while dealing with other colleagues, customer, supplier etc. They are also expected to maintain integrity & honesty in all their work. Ethical and legal standards should be maintained in business. Employees must help the company to maintain an open and supportive environment. The employees must also try that there should not be any misrepresentation of facts.
3.12 Financial information:
Financial information is needed in order to make the proper management decision. Many employees working in finance department come across such information. Employees must try not to share such information outside. Also, employees are expected not to disturb financial data. All financial transaction must be recorded accurately in case there is any discrepancy. It must be reported immediately to the manager or supervisor.
3.13 Gifts and other benefits:
The model code of conduct says that employee should not be given or accepts benefits or privilege arising due to one's position in the company and which are given or taken with intent to influence any business decision. Acceptance of money, gifts or other benefits is strictly prohibited.
However, as per code of conduct policy acceptance of gifts of minor values like a pen, diaries etc are acceptable. In case of any doubt with the acceptance of gifts one can discuss the same with his/her supervisor and can take the decision accordingly. HR can also be consulted on the same.
3.14 Harassment:
The Company is committed to providing an environment which is free from any kind of discrimination based on religion, caste, creed, marital status etc. Employees are also expected to support the company on the same. However, if an employee comes across any kind of harassment as an act by any customer or supplier the company will provide the affected employee with all the support and will also provide preventive measures on the same.
3.15 Compliance with laws and agreement:
All employees shall conduct business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations of the particular district, state or country.
3.16 Fraud:
Any kind of fraud intentionally is subject to strict disciplinary action:
Some examples of Fraud are:
3.17 Bribe:
Abiding by the values under “Code of ethics” bribe of any kind is not accepted in the company. There should not be any incidence of offering directly or indirectly any types of gifts, anything of value to the partners, customers, colleagues, etc. to:
3.18 Charitable contribution:
The charitable contribution is allowed under the “Company’s code of conduct in the workplace” but some points to be kept in mind:
3.19 Transacting with the third party:
The Company tries to be in touch with the government agencies all by itself, however, any situation may arise wherein third party agent is needed to carry on the transaction further. A formal contract must be signed between the company and the third party. Such a relationship should be based on the "Code of ethics”. A copy of the code of conduct must be given to the third party. It is to be ensured that any fee, commission or the remuneration is paid to the third party is reasonable, bonfire and commensurate with the functions and services performed. Such matter must be reflected in the book of accounts.
3.20 Relationship at work:
Any personal involvement with a colleague, customer, and the supplier can distract the normal working of the team. Any such issue must be discussed with manager or HR and corrective actions can be taken accordingly.
3.21 Lobbying:
Lobbying or any such related activity must be regulated. There should be no representation of the company in any such meeting until unless it is specifically designated by the company to do so.
3.22 Improper opportunity:
To abide by the Code of conduct for employees we should not trade it for employees self-interest and personal benefit. Employees by any means must not compete with the company.
3.23 Records and Audits:
For any company's operation of business it is crucial to have correct records and financial transactions. There are certain standard and laws which are to be followed in managing accounts for the company. It is possible by maintaining proper internal controls and procedures.
3.24 Accounting practice:
It is the policy of the company to fully and fairly disclose the financial condition of the organization according to laws, rules, and regulations. All record of the company must reflect all the transactions made so far.
3. 25 Reporting of unethical or illegal behavior:
It is generally promoted in the company that any kind of unethical or illegal behavior must be reported to the superiors immediately. As the company relies on Company code of conduct in the workplace such matters should be reported to protect the company from any far off damage. In case the employee is not comfortable sharing it with superiors, such matters should be reported to the audit committee. The company does not believe in retaliation of any kind by or on behalf of the company and its employees.
3. 26 Penalties for failure to comply:
All employees in the organization are expected to abide by the code of conduct. Any violation of code will result in disciplinary action against the employee.
Strong disciplinary actions will be taken against the employee found violating the code of conduct. Corrective action will be taken:
4. Responsibilities in following the code of conduct
Following the Corporate code of conduct is every employee responsibility. It, however, varies from position to position but responsibilities can be documented:
Employee responsibility:
Manager’s responsibility:
Management responsibility:
Management responsibility lies in proper implementation of policy.
5. Revision of the policy
The company reserves the right to revise, modify any or all clauses of this policy depending upon the demand of business.
6. Explanation of the code of conduct policy
Corporate HR department will be the sole authority to interpret the content of this policy.
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Objective: The objective of code of conduct policy is to make sure that company code of conduct is followed in all its business. The organization is meant to form a work environment which is free from any kind of discrimination. It is also meant to make employees aware of corporate code of conduct which is expected from all employees of the company.
Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to lay down rules and regulations regarding code of ethics and professional conduct so as to maintain the trust of employees in the organization they are working for and to increase transparency which in turn help bring good name to the company. This model code of conduct is planned to focus the employees on the fields related to any risk related to ethics, and to provide them with a solution which helps to deal with such issue and to help them build a culture of transparency and honesty.
Eligibility: This Policy applies to all the regular employees of the company.
A code of ethics document tells about the mission and values of an organization. It also tells about the kind of problems faced by employee’s related to ethical issues and basis what they can take the right decision.
Conflict of Interest: The employees are supposed to work at all times in company’s interest. There should not be any conflict where in employee personal or professional interest interferes with the interest of the company. Employees are expected not to involve themselves in any other business or activity which may affect their working in the company. As per the code of ethics example all employees have a sense of faithfulness towards the organization they are working for. Therefore, they must avoid any kind of situation which is contradictory for the interest of the company. There should not be any conflict of interest with the company. This is as per the model code of conduct.
A situation of conflict arises when an employee personal interest are interfering with his workings for the company effectively. Conflict of interest may also occur when an employee misuse his powers to receive improper personal benefits.
Conflict of interest may also occur when an employee is involved in double employment or accepting gifts of very high value for personal gains which may create a situation of conflict of interest.
Respectability: It means the employee is following the code of conduct in the workplace. It includes their obedience towards the personal behavior which is expected from an employee in their work and interpersonal skills.
Privacy: As per professional code of ethics an employee is suppose to keep the confidential information private. Due to employee position in the company they may come across some private and confidential information which is meant not to be shared with anyone inside or outside the company. Some undertaking regarding this must be filled in at the time of joining. Such information can be shared only when permitted by the senior management to do so. Any leakage of such information can be beneficiary to the competitor and it can be harmful to the company.
Privacy of financial particulars: As per the company code of conduct a company is suppose to disclose the company’s financial as per the accounting principle rules and regulations. All records of the company must clearly reflect the company’s transactions.
Cheating: Any kind of cheating as per the code of ethics definition is not allowed within the organization. Following will be considered as an act of cheating:
Safety and security of company’s property:
As per the code of conduct of employees they are required to maintain company’s property with utmost care. Employees are responsible for keeping safe the company’s property from any misuse, theft or any other act that result in the loss of property. The clause is also applicable in case of inventions and patents. It is also not allowed to dispose of any company property for personal gains.
Involvement in another business or employment:
According to corporate code of conduct an employee is suppose not to be engaged or interested in any other business or employment. All employees are supposed to devote their time and efforts to promote the company’s business they are working for.
Harassment: Any kind of harassment on account of age, sex, religion, race, caste, physical disability, marital status, gender is strictly prohibited. Employees are responsible to take all necessary actions and steps in term of support or preventive actions. This is as per the code of conduct at work.
Documents withholding: All the documents related to senior management must be taken care of as per the documents policy. Documents should not be destroyed as they might be used for any future cause. Any document which is to be destroyed must be approved by senior management. This is according to the code of conduct in workplace.
Alcohol or illegal substance use: All the employees are to be informed that use of alcohol or any other substance like illegal drugs etc is strictly prohibited.
Presents and Other profit: As per the code of ethics example an employee must not accept or give any presents or gifts which might affect company’s business decision. Any exchange of gifts with customers, suppliers is strictly prohibited. Any kind of direct or indirect bribe or inducements are not allowed. Any such acceptance will be the violation of code of conduct.
Abiding to the law, rules and regulations: No inside trading of any kind is allowed within the company. Each employee of the company must abide to the rules and regulations of the organization. No trading is allowed in the company’s securities.
Reporting of unethical or illegal behavior: All unethical or illegal behavior must be reported to supervisor or senior management. In case employee is uncomfortable sharing it with supervisor or senior management in that case employee might approach the audit committee.
Job responsibility and control: As per the code of conduct at work employees must do their job with integrity and honesty. Supervisors and managers must have proper control over the power assigned to them. In no case they are allowed to misuse it on their subordinates. Both managers and their subordinates to work in collaboration.
No Retaliation: According to the code of conduct example their must not be retaliation against the employee who raises against any wrongdoing within the company. Any such act will be the violation of code of conduct. Raising a concern cannot be the basis of adverse employment.
Compete Fairly: What is code of ethics? The code of ethics means following something within the limit of ethics. It goes out well when it comes to compete fairly. There should not be any deception or abuse of confidential information to have an edge over the competitor.
Career Opportunity: According to the code of conduct for employees no employee is allowed to use any opportunity arising due to working within the company at higher position or using information for personal gains. No competing is allowed within the company.
Right dealing: According to code of ethics and professional conduct all employees should deal rightly with the customers, supplier’s internal and external customers. No one is allowed to take advantage of one’s position and to deal wrongly by misrepresentation.
Attendance reporting: According to the code of conduct for employees all attendance must be marked regularly. However in case an employee is unable to come to work for any reason supervisor must be contacted.
Social Media: As per company code of ethics no content related to company should be posted on any site without approval from the senior management. No information regarding company’s colleagues, vendors, suppliers are made public on social media. Also use of logo, trademark is strictly prohibited.
Job responsibility and control: As per the code of conduct at work employees must do their job with integrity and honesty. Supervisors and managers must have proper control over the power assigned to them. In no case they are allowed to misuse it on their subordinates. Both managers and their subordinates to work in collaboration.
Anti bribery and money laundering: As per the company code of ethics no employee is allowed to bribe anyone inside or outside the company. No bribe is allowed to be offered to any official for business reasons and for sake of unfair advantages. Money laundering is strictly prohibited within the organization.
Data Privacy: Data collected from employees for internal purpose of the company such data should be kept private. It is as per the code of conduct of employees. However if need arises to share such data with an outside company, consent must be taken from employees before sharing. Once data has been used for relevant purpose and it is no longer required for any official purpose it must be destroyed as per company policy.
Environment & Sustainability: Our code of conduct policy gives equal importance to environment protection and sustainability. We as a company give our best to preserve the environment. Regular education is given to our employees regarding environment conservation.
Failure to comply with code of conduct: Any failure in order to comply with code of conduct must be dealt with strict punishment which might include loss of service or termination.
Revision of the policy: The Company reserves the right to revise, modify any or all clauses of this policy depending upon demand of business.
Explanation of the policy: Corporate HR department will be sole authority to interpret the content of this policy.
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