As we talked about before in this module, it’s important for project managers to work ethically. This means doing the right thing, not just following rules. There are written rules and laws, but there are also moral rules and values.
What are these moral rules and values? Let’s break it down with some explanations and examples.
Moral rules are like a list of dos and don’ts for how a person should behave. For instance, one moral rule is “don’t steal.”
Values are strong beliefs that guide how we act in different situations. They show what we think is good behavior. Values can be personal, but they can also be shared in groups like companies. When a bunch of people in the same group share these values, they shape how everyone acts in that group.
In companies, these shared values are super important. They make up the core of what the company’s culture is all about. These values are a small set of important beliefs that don’t change much, and they really influence how people act at work.
For example, The Open University (2019) has some values they believe in:
In our work, we stick to The Open University values of being inclusive, innovative, and responsive.
The value of being inclusive and innovative is a big part of what people do at The Open University. They use this value to make sure everyone can access knowledge through new and creative solutions.
Values and moral rules help everyone know how to behave in a group or at work. It’s good to think about them to understand how they affect the decisions we make when working on projects.
Think about the values your workplace or a group you’re in follows. Can you name some of these values? How do these values affect how you work on projects? Share your thoughts with other learners in the discussion below.
In current organisational where I work, the organisational values revolve around Reliability, Dependability, Loyal and Passion.
So, all employees are reminded from time to time about these core values that shape the modus operandi of everyone at work.
Even if you possess these values as an individual, by the virtue of the fact that you work in the organisation, you will be given a chance or chance to cultivate these values and possess them.
In my organization Integrity and innovation are key values
Integrity: Builds trust, boosts reputation, and fosters loyalty for sustained growth.
Innovation: Drives creativity, competitiveness, and new solutions for organizational growth.
I serve in my local church project office for programs. Some of the values include excellence and honour. One of our onions in my church is excellence and that has stirred my personal life as well. Anything I handle is handled with so much drive and excellence.
We also relate with people both young and old with respect. That’s where the honour comes in.
Professionalism is the goal, creating trust, setting goals, ethics and values is the soul to business.
Feed back is more important, carrying every one alone and giving updates.
Problem solving skills and getting to resolution phase
In my organization, integrity, transparency, and collaboration are key values guiding our projects.
Integrity means staying ethical and honest, especially in handling client information and project challenges. It drives me to make decisions that foster trust.
Transparency ensures all stakeholders are kept in the loop, which builds openness and encourages constructive feedback.
Collaboration emphasizes teamwork and valuing diverse perspectives, leading to stronger, more innovative solutions.
These values shape my approach, helping me make thoughtful, ethical choices that align with both client trust and organizational goals.
All six points are essential and useful in any profession, most especially time management and communication skills they are most tools that easily brings people down in the cause of their professionalism.
No matter how professional you are without Time management and communication skills with short time you will e no where to be found.
Thank you.
With my strong ethical Decision-Making principles, I will ensure that all stakeholders are treated fairly and that all project information is communicated honestly and openly while maintaining high standards of honesty and accountability in all dealings, building trust with team and stakeholders.
Communication is very essential
Rules and regulations should be followed
By prioritizing ethics and value, companies can build strong relationships, ensure long-term success, and contribute positively to society. Where I work we focus mostly on:
Customer Trust: Honest practices, data privacy, and quality service.
Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to laws and regulations to avoid penalties.
Social Responsibility: Environmental impact, fair labor practices, and community engagement.
Long-Term Sustainability: Building reputation, mitigating risks, and fostering innovation.
For me, embracing organizational values fuels my growth by providing a clear framework for decision-making, behavior, and collaboration. Aligning with these values fosters accountability, integrity, and innovation, allowing me and m team to thrive professionally and personally. By internalizing values like teamwork, adaptability, and excellence, I enhance my skills, build strong relationships, and drive meaningful contributions, ultimately propelling.
Thank you.