We are rapidly approaching a time, and some would say we are there now, a point in history where business ethics are being scrutinised more than ever before. The world is beginning to stop and think about what all this really means to me. One thing is for certain, values and ethics of those organisations that are aligned with SQ will give us all the power to do one thing more than any other, to connect. And it is this connection that will have profound implications across all business dealings. Whether it's the back handers in politics, the undermining of the whistleblower, the greed of financial institutions, the bribing of government officials, all are being exposed, examined globally in the most critical manner.
Emotional Intelligence is based on the perception that the ability of managers to understand their own emotions, and those of the people they work with, is the key to better business performance. Spirituality assumes that more effective leaders are able to manage their own emotions and manage relationships positively even in negative situations. We all have our moral compass, we all strive to live within those boundaries, and now, as a larger more vocal, effective group we are insisting that the organisations we work for, and companies globally conform. In this regard, not only are we the organisations “standard-bearer” if you like, but also the monitor of the organisations moral and ethical pulse.
In a work environment, SQ is being aware of the deeper significance and intention of what you do, it is being able to recognise the goals in the day-to-day workings of business, it is being inspired by much more than just wages. It has always been recognised that the quality of the work you do is a greater motivating factor than the “pay-check”. Developing your sense of SQ will not only benefit you as an individual, it will also benefit your families, communities, society and the companies you work for.
It is very interesting, and I believe helps in understanding SQ, to view Corporate Values and Visions in light of IQ, EQ and SQ. All generally have elements of all three. Let’s look at a few.
“ continues to focus on providing a satisfactory return to shareholders; looking after its employees and ensuring they have a safe environment in which to work; providing excellent products and services to its customers; looking after and caring for the environment”
“ providing a satisfactory return to shareholders” – is all about IQ, maintaining financial records etc.
“looking after its employees and ensuring they have a safe environment” – is EQ, empathy and understanding the needs of others.
“looking after and caring for the environment” – is SQ, community values,
Lets look at another.
As a global energy company we set high standards of performance and ethical behaviours. We are judged by how we act - our reputation is upheld by how we live up to our core values honesty, integrity and respect for people. Our….. Code of Ethics help everyone act in line with these values and comply with all relevant legislation and regulations.
“comply with all relevant legislation and regulations, high standards of performance” – is all about IQ .
“and respect for people” – is EQ, empathy and understanding of others.
“values honesty, integrity and ethical behaviours” – is SQ.
A wise prophet once said (to paraphrase):
What shall it benefit a man if he gains all the wealth in the world and loses his soul to the obsession of worldly goods, pettiness and ignorance?
In other words, you can be outrageously wealthy and still be ignorant enough to destroy yourself.
Next fortnight we will look at SQ in the workplace.
