non-Certified Internal Auditor |

Probably, everybody knows, that Code of Ethics (Code of Conduct if you want) is a really useless document, on which Internal Audit insists for compliance reasons and used only twice – when deleted from mailbox and when requested to sign-off.

And it’s true. But there is also other true: It will remain useless until you do not use it. “Simple and stupid” – you’d say and again will be right.

In case with Code of Ethics use good old exam techniques: State the obvious! You know this perfectly, I’m sure. But what about your accountants? Do they know that creative accounting is an evil? Did they heard about Enron at all and know?

There are thousands SOX compliant companies for which Code of Ethics is not more than piece of paper, taken out of safe 2 times a year – before Auditors visit and when their partner comes (just to reassure him/her: Dude, you should be surprised, but Company level controls are working!)

As of now for me the Hottest topic is Merry-Christmas-Happy-New-Year-Year stuff. Not because I have to find something unusual for my wife, no…

Year by year I have to answer the same questions and explain, that year-end gifts from vendors – it is first of all – investment and only then – courtesy, kindness, generosity etc. Rolex as a gift form supplier really means something. Even more than diamond ring to girlfriend.

Is it ethical to accept any gifts from suppliers on the New Year’s Eve? Thanks! What is maximum allowed amount? Not too much… But if it is still higher and they insist? Sad story…

Thousands of people asking themselves these questions every year and it is perfect time to help them to understand Company position.

Use this tool (and don’t be afraid of this word) to announce to the world your beliefs. Tell them, what you deem acceptable.

And, as a summary, if you are to busy to read:
1) CoE is not useless if you use it
2) Not only you should know about CoE
3) Year-end good time to show, that it works