How We Created the Code of Conduct for Albatros Media
Albatros Media asked us to collaborate on the creation of a code of ethics. Together with the company management, employee ambassadors, and especially the HR team, we set to work.
The content of the code, or rather the topics it covers, emerged from several joint workshops and discussions. We discussed individual chapters at numerous meetings with HR representatives. The purpose of the code was clear: to define what is desirable and undesirable behavior and how AM employees should behave in a given situation.
The impetus for the creation of the code was both the size and maturity of the company, but also the requirements of the New Whistleblower Protection Act. Therefore, the creation of the code also included the inclusion and connection with the FaceUp platform (former “Nenech to být”).
Chapter One: How It Began
We have been working with Albatros Media for many years. Our cooperation began years ago when the company management approached us with a request to help them improve their employer brand in the eyes of not only the reading public. During one of our regular meetings, a mention was made of the code of ethics.
The AM management came to the conclusion that the company had grown to such a size that it needed a comprehensive document that would bring together the principles of ethical behavior and that could define what is desirable and undesirable behavior. We agreed that the code of ethics also expresses the company culture, which is an important part of the so-called Employer Branding. And that is why we started working on the codex.
Consultations
Ambassadors
Topics
Chapter Two: How We Created
Together with colleagues from the Albatros Media’s HR department, we created a team that took on this project.
First, we looked at how they do it elsewhere. Thanks to external inspiration, we created a list of topics that should not be missing in the code.
Then, we discussed their vision of the Code and expectations with the company management. The management came up with other topics that should be in the code, but also those that we should avoid when creating it.
And finally, we involved representatives of the people, i.e. employee ambassadors. We learned how they react (or would react) to possible undesirable behavior or what else they think the code should define.
After collecting all the topics and opinions, we started creating it itself.
Why Does a Company Need a Code of Ethics?
A code of ethics is a document that describes the principles of behavior of a company’s employees, both among themselves and in relation to customers, suppliers and other stakeholders.
It is a set of specific rules that are based on values and principles. It protects against undesirable behavior that could expose both the employer and the employee to various sanctions and also the loss of good reputation.
It helps employees, especially newcomers, to navigate the rules of ethical behavior. It is also a tool that presents the company’s culture.
Visual Style of the Code of Ethics
When creating the code, we were inspired by the company’s corporate colors and visual style. But we also found room for our own creativity.
We supplemented the code with original illustrations, in which the main role was played by the mascot AMy and her new friend, Mrs. Book.
RED
DARK GREY
LIGHT GREY
Get to Know Our Work
During the creation process, we learned a lot of new tricks and useful things. However, the most important thing for us is client satisfaction.
Chapter Three: Putting the Code into Practice
The original plan was to provide the Code of Ethics only as a PDF document. However, we were inspired by other companies and agreed to publish the Code on the career website.
The most important step was the presentation of the Code by the CEO, Mr. Václav Kadlec. He officially launched it during one of the teleconferences attended by all employees of the company.
Our colleagues from the HR department dedicated an entire issue of “Páteční Jednohubky” (Friday Snacks, an internal e-mail newsletter) to the Code of Ethics.
* The Code was previously published on the website knihynasbavi.cz, which we created together with AM. Today, Albatros Media has new corporate website, so the graphic design of the Code on the above-mentioned website was not created by us.*
Líba Kocanová
Operations Director
We have been working with colleagues from MenSeek s.r.o. for several years in the field of Employer branding and HR marketing. Thanks to our continuous cooperation, they have had the opportunity to get to know our company very well, perceive our corporate culture and get acquainted with our specifics. When choosing a partner who would help us with the creation and definition of the Code of Ethics, we logically came to the conclusion that they are the right supplier that we want to invite to cooperate on our project.
MenSeek then proposed an overall strategy for creating the Code of Ethics and individual project milestones, proposed the graphic design of the code and its implementation into the life of the company and guided us through the entire process. Together, we created a basic document describing the principles of ethical behavior of employees of the Albatros Media group, the aim of which is to set a uniform understanding of their expressions in everyday work practice and thus prevent any disputes and differences in perception.
The Last Chapter: A Few Words in Conclusion
The Code of Ethics serves as a mental guide and a good advisor, showing employees the right direction and helping them make the best decisions, strengthen relationships and contribute to a positive atmosphere in the company. It is a key tool for the company to remain stable, develop, be successful and all colleagues together with it.
Why Cooperate with an External Firm When Creating a Code of Ethics
Employees Are More Open
People Will Share Both Positives and Negatives
You'll Save a Lot of Precious Time
The External Partner Has no "Blinders" on His Eyes
Are You Interested in Our Work?
Write to Us.
Let’s talk about how we could create something unique together.