SHRM Code of Ethical
and Professional Standards
in Human Resource Management

Society for Human Resource Management
CODE PROVISIONS

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PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY

Core Principle

As HR professionals and/or students, we are responsible for adding value to the organizations we serve and contributing to the ethical success of those organizations. We accept professional responsibility for our individual decisions and actions. We are also advocates for the profession by engaging in activities that enhance its credibility and value.

Intent

• To build respect, credibility and strategic importance for the HR profession within our Briar Cliff community.
• To assist the organizations we serve in achieving their objectives and goals.
• To inform and educate current and future practitioners, the organizations we serve, and the general public about principles and practices that help the profession.
• To positively influence workplace and recruitment practices.
• To encourage professional decision-making and responsibility.
• To encourage social responsibility.

Guidelines

1.    Adhere to the highest standards of ethical and professional behavior.

2.    Comply with the law.

3.    Work consistently with the values of the profession.

4.    Strive to achieve the highest levels of service, performance and social responsibility.

5.    Advocate for the appropriate use and appreciation of human beings in Briar Cliff community.

6.    Advocate openly and within the established forums for debate in order to influence decision-making and results.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Core Principle

As professionals we must strive to meet the highest standards of competence and commit to strengthen our competencies on a continuous basis.

Intent

• To expand our knowledge of human resource management to further our understanding of how our organizations work.

Guidelines

1.    Pursue formal academic opportunities.

2.    Commit to continuous learning, skills development and application of new knowledge related to human resource management.

3.    Contribute to the body of knowledge, the evolution of the profession and the growth of individuals through teaching, research and dissemination of knowledge.

4.    Pursue certification of the PHR.

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP

Core Principle

HR professionals and/or students are expected to exhibit individual leadership by serving as role models and maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Intent

• To set the standard and be an example for others.
• To earn individual respect and increase our credibility.

Guidelines

1.    Be ethical; act ethically in every professional interaction.

2.    Question pending individual and group actions when necessary to ensure that decisions are ethical and are implemented in an ethical manner.

3.    Seek expert guidance if ever in doubt about the ethical propriety of a situation.

FAIRNESS AND JUSTICE

Core Principle

As human resource professionals, we are ethically responsible for promoting and fostering fairness and justice for all in our Briar Cliff community.

Intent

To create and sustain an environment that encourages all individuals and the organization to reach their fullest potential in a positive and productive manner.

Guidelines

1.    Respect the uniqueness and intrinsic worth of every individual.

2.    Treat people with dignity, respect and compassion to foster a trusting work/school environment free of harassment, intimidation, and unlawful discrimination.

3.    Ensure that everyone has the opportunity to develop their skills and new competencies.

4.    Assure an environment of inclusiveness and a commitment to diversity in the organizations we serve.