Why ethical Business?

ByHanna Shiferaw

It is clear that there are always problems that need our solutions as long as we live in this world. We need many things to live and getting them all is not an easy task. We can’t get all we want separately or individually. We need each other very much.Business is a problem solving mechanism by which we give solutions for our problems that surround us.

Since business is a solution, in order to give solutions for people’s problems, you need to be someone who cares about people. However for most, business has no meaning apart from some profit maximization method.

Business has its own ethics. Even though there are many issues when we talk about business ethics, what I want to say now is about one and, in my opinion, the most awful mistake people do when doing it. That is placing their need ahead of their customers need.

Your customers need you to solve their problems, to satisfy their needs, but not to take advantage of them. They want trustworthy business people in order to put their trust on them. If people think that you are taking advantage of them or you being selfish, they don’t want to see you again. Don’t make maximizing profit the first and foremost goal of your business. Solve problems first. Wish to see a satisfied customer. Profit is a reward your customers give you when you satisfy their needs. The people will curse him who withholds grain, but blessing willbe on the head of him who sells it. Proverbs 11:26

If you want to run a successful business, get rid of ‘money first’ attitude out of your mind. Money is not the only or the primary thing you need in life. Be able to see beyond the boundaries of money and material possessions.  You can do far more than that. Unfair or unethical way of doing business damages society, country, and the entire business system. If your society, your country or the entire business system is damaged, you are the one who suffer in return.