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 BUSINESS ETHICS GUIDELINES AND RESOURCES

Home > How To Say 'NO' With Tact

You may be faced with a situation in which a partner or co-owner proposes an action that you believe is not ethical or outright wrong. Perhaps an employee comes to you with this situation. What do you do? What do you tell your employee?

You may be tempted to do what is asked because you know the person or you feel obligated for some other reason. Are you looking at doing the questionable action simply to "go along to get along"? If so, you would knowingly be doing what you believe is unethical. That makes you as wrong as the other person.

Fight the temptation. Take a stand. Say NO, with tact. Here's how ...

Don't accuse the other person of being unethical. Instead, use "I" statements to describe your feelings.

State Your Objection And Concern Without Indictment.

• I have serious concerns about that, and I need your understanding ...
• I honestly believe it is wrong because ...
• I can't do what I feel is wrong ...

Propose An Alternative Action That You Feel Is Ethical.

• I think I know what you want to accomplish, and I feel there's a better way to do it. How about ...

Ask For The Person's Help And Agreement.

• I really need your help.
• I want to make sure we both do the right thing.
• Will you go with me on this one?

If You Aren't The Owner Or President, Seek Assistance From Higher Authority.

Here are some words of wisdom from well-known individuals about this topic:

• "Keep true, never be ashamed of doing right, decide on what you think is right and stick to it." - George Eliot
• "If you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything." - Multiple sources.
• "To know what is right and not do it is the worst cowardice." - Confucius
• "Honesty is the cornerstone of all success, without which confidence and ability to perform cease to exist." - Mary Kay Ash
• "It is not who is right, but what is right, that is of importance." - Thomas H. Huxley

Acting ethically sets an example. Others see your actions. Once the ethical barrier has been breached, others may assume it is appropriate to act unethically and improperly in many more situations.

This information is compiled and provided by George S. May International Company.
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