CHARACTER and value have an important place in the business world.

Dave Anderson, author of How to Run Your Business by THE BOOK: A Biblical Blueprint to Bless Your Business, says that a manager needs to take the time to look at the character of his or her company instead of only focusing on money issues. And once the company’s values are determined, a manager should tell employees.

“It’s amazing how few leaders take the time to do this,” says Anderson. “They may feel uncomfortable discussing character issues, or maybe they’ve never really given a lot of thought to what they really stand for themselves. But just resolving to sit down and articulate your beliefs is a powerful exercise — and one that yields powerful results.”

Anderson provides tips to maintain character in a company:

* Avoid telling white lies. These little lies might not seem like a big deal, but they are still untruthful. Being dishonest can lead to bigger wrongdoings.

* Don’t break promises. Try to keep your word and finish your duties.

* Do your best and go “the second mile”. A lot of workers do the bare minimum in order to coast but avoid being fired. Those who do more than the minimum will stand out. A little more effort could lead to more benefits.

* Avoid false notions. Don’t pretend to be something you aren’t. Be honest and straightforward in order to maintain credibility.

* Forgive right away. Holding grudges doesn’t bring positive results in the office. Reconcile in order to move on and reduce workplace resentment.

Improving a company’s character starts with the manager. Employers need to practise what they preach.

“It’s one thing to sit down with your employees and share your values, but the best way to get the message across is to make sure you are setting the example yourself,” says Anderson.

— Creators News Service