The term "Business Ethics"
does not have to be an oxymoron. We do not need to bore you with a lengthy
tirade about our guiding principals, but you should know that we have them.
Willenbrink Associates' ethics have a big effect on the way we do most
everything in our work. What follows are some brief notes from Joseph
Willenbrink regarding how his (and therefore our) ethical beliefs shape the way
we add value to you.
Ultimately, it's not about our ethical standards . . .
It's about
you.
The Value of People
For the employee, change brings stress. Impending change means job
insecurity. The average person has bills to pay and a family to feed, and
is not prepared to deal physically or emotionally with the concept that his/her
job is in jeopardy. I have served as General Manager for both the sellers
and the buyers transition teams, and have had to send people home. I do
not enjoy it, and advise you to avoid anyone who does. (I have also been
sent home, and I know how it feels . . . not good!)
I have a basic belief in the nobility of humans and other living
things. Because of this, as a manager, I have gone to bat for my team, and
they have gone to bat for me. Regardless of how severe the circumstances,
it is always my goal to save as many jobs as possible, and to provide as much
outplacement support as possible for "downsized" employees.
The Value of Your Time
Unlike the big guys, I won't jerk you around in order to fatten up the
tab. Ultimately my success depends upon your satisfaction with me, and
your willingness to recommend me glowingly to your friends and associates.
I am not obsessed with the "billable hours" of other consultants, and
take great satisfaction in a job excellently done. If you ask me to do do
something that can't be done in my opinion, I will tell you so. If you ask
me to perform a task which is beyond my capabilities, I will tell you that as
well, with a program for who I need to bring in, for how long, and at what
price.
The Value of Your Money
You have shareholders who want you to account for every nickel you
spend. Many consultants have a knack for turning investment into
expense. I won't do that. While I need enough latitude to move, I will
account for every cent you spend, and provide you as much detail as you need
regarding what you are getting for your money.
There Are Things I Won't Do For Money
I don't have to go into this one. You can probably guess what those
things are, and I'd hope you wouldn't do them either.
