Student Center for the Public Trust

Many people believe actions speak louder than words. I believe the intent behind those actions and words can tell you a lot about a person’s character.

I recently overhead a guy discussing plans to break into an office building after hours. He planned to become friends with someone who worked in the building, then swipe that person’s access badge to get in after hours. Fortunately, his friend said “Dude, you can’t do that!’”

Whew…that was music to my ears. I was glad someone spoke up as the voice of reason. I wondered what compelled him to stand up to his friend, and tell him that his behavior was unacceptable. Perhaps he would eventually explain that it’s unethical to:

a. befriend someone on false pretenses
b. steal their access badge
c. enter a secure area unauthorized and/or
d. steal something once he gets there

No such luck, he told his friend he couldn’t do it because “You can’t get in a secure area at 2:00 a.m. with just an access badge.” Essentially, he told his buddy that he lacked the physical ability to pull off the break-in, not that he shouldn’t do it. He said the right thing, for the wrong reason.

Not only was I disappointed in his rationale, I was shocked that this conversation took place in broad daylight, during the lunch hour on a crowded sidewalk. I was stunned, but I guess I shouldn’t be. Although many business people engage in ethical behavior at work, there will always be a select few who participate in unethical activities.

Working for the NASBA Center for the Public Trust (CPT) keeps ethical business practices and leadership at the forefront of my mind. I don’t claim to be or want to be any sort of “Ethical Police”, but it makes me glad to work for an organization that helps teach people how to do things the right way.

We are excited about developing and encouraging the next generation of corporate leaders, by providing them with ethical resources and training. But this conversation serves as a reminder that we still have work to do. Maybe next time the conversation will take a different tone. “Dude, you can’t do that! It’s just not right!”

Lara Loewl,
NASBA Center for the Public Trust