1. Truth and Integrity: A Core Quaker Business Principle
One name for the Society of Friends called Quakers is ‘The Religious Society of Friends of the Truth’. This principle guides our approach to business and our relationships in the workplace.
1.1 Speaking Truth to Power
This means that where we find abuse of power or unethical business practice in the workplace, we are called to speak the truth about it to those in power. We believe this is a vital component of fostering an ethical business environment.
1.2 Honesty and Promises
Speaking the truth in business includes honesty in all our dealings. We have a strong tradition of making every effort to keep promises we make, including those on price, delivery, or quality. We believe this commitment to integrity is essential for a good business and building trust with customers and partners.
1.3 Pioneering Fixed Prices
Some of our forebearers regarded initially offering a higher price and intending to offer a discount if pressed as a form of deception, and therefore lying, to the customer: they pioneered fixed prices in their shops. Our prices must not be deceptive. This is an historial example of how Quaker History in Business has led to practical, honest, and ethical business practices.
1.4 The Timeliness of Our Word
If we promise to pay at 30 days, but intend to pay at 60 days, is this also a form of lying? Is it more friendly to the truth to openly negotiate 60 days and to keep it? This is a prime example of the kind of ethical dilemmas we face, where truthfulness and clarity are paramount in all our decision-making processes.
1.5 Speaking Plainly to Avoid Confusion
As Friends of the Truth, we speak plainly. In a business context, this means not using devious language to mislead or confuse about our products, services, or in any of our business dealings. We are committed to fostering transparency in business through clear, unambiguous communication.
1.6 The Truth About Profit
We are not afraid to affirm the truth that profit is necessary for survival and reinvestment, which are foundations of a sustainable business. Profit permits betters conditions for workers and suppliers, contributes to social equity, and provides taxes for the common good. This approach aligns with the principles of a social enterprise, where success is a means to achieve a greater purpose.
1.7 Standing in the Light: The Power of Transparency
As Friends of the Truth, we stand in the Light. In our business and workplace, are we afraid to be seen in the Light? Transparency is a modern name for a traditional Quaker characteristic. Our business practices should be able to withstand public scrutiny.
1.7.1 Asking the Right Questions
- Is our product or purpose in business valid if brought to the Light? This simple question is at the heart of our decision-making process and our commitment to ethical outcomes.
- Should tax planning of our affairs be accompanied by complete transparency to the State, and be modified to what is just and fair to other tax payers? This query relates to our broader commitment to corporate social responsibility and our role as ethical citizens.
- In today’s climate, should we make public what we and our colleagues are paid? This challenge relates directly to the principles of equality at work and employee well-being, pushing for a level of transparency that fosters fairness and trust.