What An Ethical Mission Is

As consumers, we are more interested than ever in the ethical missions of businesses. We want to know that our money is being put to good use, and that we’re not supporting companies with shady practices. That’s why more and more businesses are adopting ethical missions statements. Harmony Hunt Vallejo will discuss what an ethical mission is, and why it’s important for businesses today.

An ethical mission is a philosophy that guides how an organization behaves. It shapes the actions taken and the decisions made throughout the company, defining what will be approved and what won’t. This core principle acts as a road map for how people within the company should conduct themselves, making it easier to ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to ethical values. An ethical mission not only influences behavior, but workplace culture more broadly; it helps to create an environment where people feel secure in behaving ethically and working towards common goals. Whether those goals are centered on profit or sustainability, having a code of ethics at its foundation helps give the business greater moral credibility.

Harmony Hunt Vallejo

Many businesses today are leading the charge in ethical missions. Companies like Patagonia and Toms Shoes use their platforms to advocate for environmental causes and help people less fortunate than themselves, respectively. Patagonia donates one percent of its annual revenue to environmental organizations, while Toms Shoes has donated over 60 million pairs of shoes since it started in 2006. Additionally, companies such as Warby Parker have taken a stance on reducing paper waste by implementing recycling initiatives with their customers. Each of these examples demonstrates how businesses can do good simultaneously with making profits and making the world a better place for us all to live in.

Having an ethical mission is often overlooked when it comes to creating a successful business, yet companies that prioritize their ethical goals alongside their financial ambitions often reap tremendous benefits. Many customers are increasingly looking for companies that are conscious of their environmental and social impact and will actively choose to support businesses with similar values and beliefs. An organization’s shared mission can bring together its employees as they work towards achieving a meaningful purpose, while fostering a positive public image can translate into increased revenues. By embodying fair practices in the supply chain and being transparent when it comes to commercial activities, a business may establish strong relationships with its customers who will become reliable patrons of the organization. Through substantive ethical objectives, a business can remain competitive and generate long-term success.