Pamela Furr, the founder and Chief Financial Officer of Puzzle Box Academy and Kaleidoscope Interventions, explores the distinction between morals and ethics. She emphasizes that while morals are personal values that guide individual actions, ethics are standards established by a community or governing body. Professionals like attorneys and healthcare providers have ethical guidelines to follow to protect the well-being of the people they serve.
Reflecting on an incident in her organization, Furr discusses the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the workplace. A BCBA trainee falsely accused her mentor of sexual harassment when confronted about attendance issues. However, due to the presence of cameras recording the meeting, the organization was able to prove the accusation false. Furr expresses frustration with governing boards being hesitant to intervene in conflicts, highlighting the need for organizations to uphold ethical principles.
Following the incident, Furr led courses in her organization to foster a culture of transparency and integrity. She emphasizes the importance of open and honest communication, referring to policies and procedures, and building a sense of community within the organization. By creating an environment where employees can openly address concerns and conflicts, ethical boundaries can be maintained, and well-being protected.
Furr encourages leaders to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees and uphold professional ethics in the workplace. By modeling respectful and open communication, organizations can foster a culture of trust and accountability. While external governing boards can hold individuals accountable to standards, it is up to organizations to create a work environment that upholds ethical principles and ensures the welfare of all stakeholders.
As a member of the Forbes Business Council, Furr highlights the importance of creating a workplace culture that aligns with professional ethics. By promoting transparency, integrity, and community within organizations, leaders can contribute to a positive and ethical work environment. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of employers to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees and to uphold ethical standards in the workplace.
