8715_300_uko7_ppt_8

Introduction to Business Behaviours

The importance of individual behaviour adaptation is crucial in achieving compliance with organisational expectations and policies, particularly through adherence to codes of conduct and ethics.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this learning session, learners are expected to:

• Identify different types of organisational policies and how their content shapes employee conduct.

• Comprehend the significance of acceptable behaviour for cultivating a positive organisational culture and understand the rationale behind set policies related to conduct and ethics.

Policies and Their Importance

Policies play a vital role in ensuring that employees conduct themselves appropriately, as they are an organization's most valuable asset and represent it both internally and externally. Misconduct can have widespread repercussions for the overall functioning and reputation of an organisation. Some of the key policies related to employee conduct include:

• Human Resource Policies: These guide the human element of the workforce.

• Communication Policies: These dictate how employees communicate internally and externally.

• Behaviour Policies: Often encapsulated in a code of conduct, these policies set guidelines regarding acceptable conduct in various settings.

Human Resource Policies

Human resource policies are fundamental for proper employee management. Their main types include:

• Recruitment Policy: Ensures that candidates align with the organisation's expected conduct, including their attitudes and behaviours.

• Anti-Discrimination and Harassment Policy: Protects employees from unethical treatment.

• Disciplinary and Grievance Policy: Provides a framework for management to address poor conduct and behaviours among employees.

Communication Policies

Effective communication is essential for smooth operations within an organisation. The main types of communication policies include:

• Use of Communication Channels Policy: Guides appropriate usage of communication platforms, including social media.

• Internal Communication Policy: Outlines the strategy for sharing information and updates within the organisation.

• External Communication Policy: Provides guidance on managing communication with external parties.

Behaviour Policy (Code of Conduct)

The behaviour policy, often referred to as the code of conduct, outlines the expected behaviours of employees:

• Definition: A code of conduct sets the standard for acceptable behaviours during work hours.

• Contents may include:

  • Ethics

  • Dress code

  • Behavioural expectations

  • Break policies

  • Links to company values

Employees’ Awareness of Policies

Awareness of policies is essential for ensuring compliance among employees. Policies define expected behaviours and consequences for non-adherence. New employees should receive thorough training on:

• The existence of relevant policies.

• Details of the policy content.

• Expected behaviours.

• Consequences of non-compliance. An example could be provided to illustrate poor employee behaviour and its potential ramifications for the organisation.

Understanding Organisational Culture

Organisational culture refers to how employees interact with one another, their work, and the outside world. It encapsulates the shared values, beliefs, and practices that guide actions within the organisation. This culture sets the standard for acceptable behaviour.

Significance of Acceptable Behaviour

Acceptable behaviour is integral to determining the social environment, the operational efficiency, and overall performance of the organisation. It is crucial for creating a positive workplace culture where employees thrive. Questions to consider are:

• What does a good workplace look like?

• What behaviours foster a constructive working environment?

Key Areas for Building a Positive Organisational Culture

To cultivate a workplace where employees take pride in their organisation, focus on the following key areas:

• Development and enforcement of good policies and procedures.

• Leadership that exemplifies desired behaviours.

• Maintaining effective communication practices between management and staff.

• Recognising and rewarding employee contributions.

• Offering training and development opportunities.

• Setting collective goals that align across all levels of the organisation.

Conclusion

In summary, an organisation must prioritise behavioural policies and cultivative culture to foster an environment where employees are engaged, productive, and represent the organisation positively in all interactions.