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Editor\u2019s Note: <\/strong>To commemorate PRSSA and PRSA Ethics Month<\/a>, PRSSA<\/em> is running a series of posts on important ethics issues facing students and young professionals in public relations. <\/em> <\/em>An archive of PRSSA ethics-related posts<\/em> can be found <\/em>here<\/em><\/a><\/em><\/em>. You can also read ethics-related PRSA posts<\/a> on the PRSAY blog.<\/em> It is now September, which means it is officially PRSSA and PRSA Ethics Month<\/a>! September calls for a celebration of our Society that honors the integrity of our profession and upholding our high standards of ethical practice. The process of transitioning to an internship or entry-level position at a company can often be daunting. Throw ethics<\/a> into the equation, and you could be dizzy by your second week. But don\u2019t worry! These tips will help answer questions young professionals have as they approach ethical situations.<\/p>\n Familiarize yourself with the professional values and code provisions in the PRSA Code of Ethics<\/a>, as these will help aid in your ethical decision-making<\/a>.<\/p>\n Being ethical stems from honesty<\/a>. We all have a conscience; if you get that \u201cI don\u2019t think I should do this\u201d feeling, you probably shouldn\u2019t do it.<\/p>\n The free flow of information instructs professionals to disclose as much<\/em> information needed for the public to make educated decisions about a specific issue.<\/p>\n Think strategically about the consequences of any questionable decision or action.<\/p>\n Use the PRSA Ethical Decision Making Guide<\/a> to determine whether an action is unethical. Consider: does the action negatively affect any party involved or violate your morality?<\/em><\/p>\n Young professionals must speak their mind. It\u2019s okay to respectfully explain to a supervisor you aren\u2019t comfortable with an assigned task. Remember your integrity and professionalism are constantly on the line, so speak up!<\/p>\n If you are going to execute my last point, and speak with your supervisor, it\u2019s best to present your supervisor with an alternative and ethical <\/strong><\/em>resolution. Be proactive and try to create an ethical solution.<\/p>\n Mentorship is important. Seek a mentor you trust and can confide in. Leaving names out, discuss the situation and how you think it should be solved. Mentors give great advice.<\/p>\n As professionals, we should report any suspicious issue we think is unethical. Watching unethical acts and not making them right is also unethical. Respectfully (possibly anonymously) report the issue.<\/p>\n If you witness unethical behavior, don\u2019t attempt to counsel that person on his or her ethics. Both parties will argue and nothing will get accomplished. In addition, it isn\u2019t really your place. That is a job for the supervisor.<\/p>\n Let experiences help you understand this is a constant learning process. Learn from your mistakes and learn from others\u2019 mistakes. Learn as you go, and don\u2019t ever stop.<\/p>\n If you need any assistance with ethics or have questions please feel free to contact me<\/a> at any point during the year. I am here to help support you through the professional transition period.<\/p>\n How are you and your Chapter celebrating PRSA Ethics Month? We would love to know, so share your programming ideas!<\/p>\n
\n<\/em><\/p>\nHow Can I Be Ethical? <\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n
1. Know the PRSA Code of Ethics<\/strong><\/h6>\n
2. Be Honest <\/strong><\/h6>\n
3. Protect the Free Flow of Information<\/strong><\/h6>\n
4. Think Strategically<\/strong><\/h6>\n
What if my supervisor asks me to do something unethical? <\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n
1. Evaluate the Situation for Ethical Issues <\/strong><\/h6>\n
2. Speak Your Mind<\/strong><\/h6>\n
3. Present a Better Solution<\/strong><\/h6>\n
4. Seek Guidance<\/strong><\/h6>\n
What if I witness unethical behavior? <\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/h5>\n
1. Report the Issue<\/strong><\/h6>\n
2. Do Not Counsel<\/strong><\/h6>\n
3. Learn From Mistakes<\/strong><\/h6>\n