The company I work for, which happens to be American although I am based in UK, has put together a list of what it calls "covenants". I am not too happy with the word, but FWIW here they are, offered without comment and just as food for thought. Every now and then, when things are getting out of hand in a meeting or discussion, someone calls "covenants!" - a bit as you might say "Time out!" I guess. Not all have direct relevance to us, but could be adapted if people thought it a good idea. I don't know whether it is or not, and I shan't mind if it is ignored:
1. Treat colleagues with mutual respect, trust, and dignity, and believe they are acting in the best interest of the company.
2. Help each other; ask for and give help and welcome it freely (it is not a sign of weakness). Go out of the way to provide extra support to fellow employees. Share experiences and lessons learned, both successes and failures.
3. Communicate early, honestly, and completely with all who have a direct interest in the subject. Listen to others' points of view.
4. Earn trust by accepting and honoring agreements, keeping promises, and discussing needed changes before acting.
5. Work to understand company goals and strategies and proactively support them through discussions, communications, and actions (for example, sharing resources).
6. Never undermine colleagues directly or indirectly.
7. Work jointly to resolve disagreements in good faith. If necessary, go to a higher authority together, then accept and support the solution.
8. Contribute constructively by exercising the highest level of professional and ethical behavior.
9. Promote continuous use of the covenants.
dxb.
