Ethics. Most people assume that ethics means a certain code of honor or a standard of good behavior. When you're ethical, you "do the right thing." But what exactly does that mean, and do we all mean the same thing when we say it? It's a gray area, to be sure. The only way to know what, exactly, we mean is to reflect on the question — individually and as a group — and come to some consensus about what ethics looks and sounds like within our group or organization.

As with everything else in business and life, good communication suggests we don't assume agreement, but rather compare notes and ensure that we have a common understanding of ethics and ethical behavior. But proceed cautiously; our standard of ethics often stems from a cultural or religious foundation, so can make for uneasy and, if we're not aware and skillful, illegal discussion.

We've put together this Ivy Sea issue portal to help get you started toward mindful reflection, solid understanding, productive conversation and skillful practice of ethical standards.

— What's your ethical "line in the sand?"

— Defining and communicating ethics

— The high costs of incivility

— Conflict resolution: a communication tool for change

— Conflict resolution practices tip sheet.

— Conflict resolution basics: a check list

— What to say when people leave you speechless

— Managing button pushers

— Better listening may mean fewer conflicts

— Tired of miscommunication?

— Do you affect your community for better or worse?

— Tough discussion quick tips

— What communication vehicles work best?

— Tips for creating a great employee handbook

— Interpersonal & intrapersonal skill-builders

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internal communication programs:
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The following web sites feature some nice resources about communicating and defining organizational ethics:

• What is Ethics? (article by Dean Bottorff)

• Ethical Edge.com

• The Ethics Resource Center

• Inc.com Article: Communicating Ethics

• Business Ethics Online

• Character Counts Coalition

• Josephson Institute of Ethics

• E-Center for Business Ethics

• About.com's Ethics Center

• Institute for Global Ethics

• Markkula Center for Applied Ethics

• Islamic Training Foundation on Ethics

• People Centered Development Forum

Please surf carefully and apply your findings mindfully! There's a lot of great information here on the web, but only you can decide what's appropriate for your group.

• Celebrating Independent Spirit
• Change and Communication
• Community and Dialogue
• Conflict and Communication
• Corporate Culture and Communication
• Ethics and Communication
• Leadership: Leading Virtual Teams
• Morale and Motivation
• Renewal and Transformation

•
Right Relationships - Valuing People
• Social Responsibility
• Spirituality and the Workplace
• Storytelling: Unleash the Power!
• Strategy and Communication
• Vision, Inspiration & Creativity

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