Ethical Leadership and the Code of Ethics in American Corporate Firms: Wells Fargo & Company

Abstract

Every company has core values and principles that guide the actions of that specific company. These values inform the decisions that are made and how they are made within that company, these values form the company's code of ethics. A company's code of ethics is specially designed for that company, and more often than not, cannot be implemented into other company without alterations. This is because companies have different cultures and therefore need different guidelines to guide their behavior and decision making. The paper evaluates the ethical concerns within Wells Fargo & Company, analyze its code of ethics, and evaluate the consequences that are faced by companies that engage in unethical and illegal activities. In conclusion, it is very important for an organization's culture to be based on ethics. An ethical decision making ensures that a company runs smoothly, is always in line with laws and regulations, and provides safe working conditions for employees who are more productive because of it. Organizations also benefit from running a business based on ethical decision making because this leaves the protected from the consequences that come with illegal and unethical business conduct and practices. Keywords: Ethical Leadership, Code of Ethics, Corporate Firms and Wells Fargo & Company