Though some might think of business ethics consulting as irrelevant, the truth is that it really applies to everybody. Different job roles have their own needs for business ethics consulting and training, and what works for one workplace may not work for another. However, no matter what business you are in, business ethics is a part of the whole, which is why many MBA programs include ethics coursework, and most companies have some provisions in place for ethical consulting.

For working with business ethics consultants to get the skills needed for compliance, both the front line of office workers and the top brass and management can profit from specialized solutions applicable to their job titles. Web users can find guidance from:

1. Office business ethics consultants with expertise in talking to office workers about behaviors in the workplace.

2. Specialized business ethics consulting by industry, where the ethical "thorns" of a certain kind of business are covered in thoughtful training and analysis.

3. More business ethics solutions for leaders and those in powerful positions, where training focuses on larger aspects like controlling company resources and paying attention to stockholders.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get beyond the 'cheerleader' role for business ethics consulting

One of the main issues when working with ethical business consulting for the rank and file is the idea that yesterday's approaches may be almost entirely ineffective. As control structure continues to change in the workplace, the simplistic paradigms of the past do not generally engage those who they are aimed at. Renovate your business ethics consulting and training to be relevant in both content and tone.

I recommend: For thoughts on the dangers of anemic rank and file ethics training, check out sites like the Business Ethics Blog by Chris McDonald, Ph. D. Getting a free consultation from a business ethics consulting company like Professional Services Source may be a way to get a feel for the effectiveness of a course before beginning to make sure your training soars above the textbook approach that tends to alienate workers.

Find the business ethics consulting programs suited to your workplace

Another part of 'ordering up' business ethics advisor options is to find out how these kinds of consulting firms can best supply your company with what it needs to comply with all laws and promote integrity in the halls and beyond. Managers can accomplish this in various ways, by being attuned to their workers' needs and active in finding the right fit.

I recommend: Get customized business ethics training plans in your office from working with companies like WeComply, where the firm offers to create programs tailored to your business needs. Or look through business ethics consulting "training catalogs" from consultants like K-Alliance to find solutions that work for you.

Look for corporate responsibility business ethics consulting

Other business ethics advisors deal mainly in providing consulting to the top of a business, for guidance on how to promote environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility and financial solvency, rather than workplace-oriented consulting on social behaviors. This kind of broader business ethics consulting can help business leaders stay true to shareholders, the public and the environment.

I recommend: The Ethical Leadership Group offers advanced ethics training from highly credentialed professionals on issues that go beyond workplace interactions. These options on stewardship, sustainability and more, tailored to top brass, can make a huge difference in the navigation of a company. For more of this kind of resource, let managers chart their own ethical growth with publications and materials like those of Green America's Green Business Network, a venue for learning about socially responsible business.

Business ethics advisors are invaluable when your business needs specialized talent or industry knowledge not currently available on your staff. With vast resources, ethics consultants offer fresh perspective, experience, knowledge and skills to provide successful ethics solutions for your business.

Business ethics consultants provide important skills for businesses seeking to align workplace attitudes and behavior with their corporate values and standards. Ethics consulting companies increase productivity by addressing essential issues, recognizing internal or external obstacles and providing specialized services to improve your workplace environment.

Before beginning your search for a business ethics consultant, it is important to define your consulting needs. Clearly identify the goal of your ethical business consultancy service, project scope, services needed, time frame and budget. This information will help you select the best business ethics advisor to meet your specific needs.

When selecting business ethics experts for your organization, research each consulting practice and evaluate the following:

1. What kind of experience do the business ethics advisors offer to improve workplace attitudes and behavior for your company?

2. What services do the ethical consulting firms provide to enhance your business operations?

3. How much should your business invest in business ethics solutions?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Hire business ethics consultants that specialize in your industry

Select ethics consultants for business who are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in your industry. Ask to see a list of past and present clients, and request references.

I recommend: Bauer Ethics Seminars features testimonials and an online client list representing a broad spectrum of industries. RedHawk Ethics Solution has provided ethics training for clients in the manufacturing, construction, transportation, finance, business services, education, government, health care, retail, consumer, energy, utilities, telecommunications and media industries. Vasin, Heyn & Company specializes in ethics and social responsibility consulting for non profit organizations.

Choose ethical business consulting firms with proven skills

Review the consulting work provided by each business ethics consulting firm. Evaluate the ethics consulting company's, qualifications and certifications, and request successful project examples of the specific skill sets you need.

I recommend: MHC International, Ltd., is skilled in helping businesses design and implement a Corporate Code of Ethics. Resources for Ethics and Management offers six custom consulting and training services to help companies increase business integrity. Working Values offers business ethics solutions, strategy, assessment and training services, and features online case studies.

Select business ethics advisors that meet your budget

Many business ethics consulting firms operate on a retainer with a minimum time commitment. Several utilize an hourly fee structure for short-term projects. Your ethical business consultancy cost will depend upon the scope of your services.

I recommend: WeComply, Inc., a business ethics and compliance training firm, offers per-credit, per-employee and per-program pricing options to meet their clients' needs. Ethical Leadership Group bills using an hourly fee or project fee depending on the project and client needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure that it is written into your contract that the business ethics consultant firm will not provide services to any competing business during the course of your relationship.
• •  It is tempting to save time by interviewing just one ethical business consulting firm. However, it is in your organization's best interest to contact and interview several business ethics consultants to discuss your potential project. Two or three choices will provide you with the best possible match in skills, services, price and rapport for both you and the business ethics consulting firm.