This article explores how ethics and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have become more important than ever in today’s business world, especially after high-profile scandals like Enron and Bernie Madoff’s Ponzi scheme shook the global economy. Companies like the Ethisphere Institute, which ranks the world’s most ethical companies, have helped push ethics to the forefront of corporate discussions. Leaders from Aflac, Voya Financial, and the Ethisphere Institute share their views on the state of corporate ethics, offering valuable insights on how ethics and CSR are intertwined and essential for long-term success.

One interesting point is the emphasis on ethics as a mindset rather than an option. Dan Amos, CEO of Aflac, explains that in today’s skeptical environment, companies that prioritize ethics can gain the trust and loyalty of consumers. This idea—that doing the right thing is not only the ethical choice but also good for business—comes up repeatedly in the conversation.

The connection between ethics and corporate social responsibility is also highlighted. According to Rodney Martin, CEO of Voya Financial, CSR is a reflection of a company’s culture and values, encompassing everything from environmental sustainability to diversity and transparency. It’s not just about doing business; it’s about building trust with all stakeholders—employees, customers, and communities alike.

Another standout idea is how important it is to build an ethical culture within a company. This starts at the top, with leadership setting the tone for the rest of the organization. Amos, Martin, and Timothy Erblich of the Ethisphere Institute all agree that leaders need to walk the talk when it comes to ethics, demonstrating integrity in their actions every day. They also stress the importance of open communication, ensuring that employees feel safe speaking up about unethical behavior without fear of retaliation.

When it comes to measuring ethics, the article emphasizes that it’s not easy, but it’s essential. Companies like Aflac and Voya rely on surveys and peer-to-peer benchmarking to measure how their ethics and CSR programs are perceived. Engaging with employees, customers, and shareholders regularly helps ensure that companies are on the right track and maintaining the trust of their stakeholders.

In short, the article shows that ethics and CSR are no longer optional add-ons for businesses—they are fundamental to long-term success. Companies that excel in these areas, like Aflac and Voya, have figured out that a strong ethical culture, combined with a commitment to social responsibility, is key to building trust and thriving in today’s competitive environment. https://www.forbes.com/sites/robertreiss/2017/09/11/top-ceos-place-high-value-on-corporate-ethics-and-social-responsibility-to-drive-business/#371dcde24473