I recently spent an enlightening and inspiring morning discussing business ethics with a hundred or so Smoky Hill High School students. The curriculum was the Junior Achievement Capitalism with a Conscience program, and the discussions were held in two sessions, each of which combined two business classes. I have now conducted several of these sessions, and every previous class was around 20-25 students. So, I must admit that I was somewhat concerned about achieving the same level of interaction with the larger combined classes. But, it actually worked out just fine. As always, I left feeling energized, upbeat, and glad I had been there.
First, let me say that traditional stereotypes about high school kids are simply wrong. They are not rude or insensitive, or unmanageable, or uncommunicative. They are smart, knowledgeable, inquisitive, and outspoken. They think, they argue, and they ask good questions. They wear funny clothes. But, they really do care.
During the hour we spend together, I think I teach them a few things, and I know they teach me (or remind me of) a few things. I help them recognize that honesty and integrity are not only the foundation of a successful business, but also the trademarks of a successful employee. I help them look at ethics issues from both sides — employer and employee; buyer and seller. They understand that what might look ok from one perspective, takes on a completely different hue when viewed from another. We talk about capitalism and the fundamentals of American business, and then we relate them to current business events. What should Toyota have done? Why is Joe Nacchio in jail? They form their own opinions, but they don’t think as a group. They often disagree with me and with each other.
Finally, I have yet to present to a high school class where the teacher was not engaged and supportive. At Smoky Hill, the teachers undoubtedly help to maintain discipline and attention. But, they are also quick to ask questions and stimulate conversation. They keep the students engaged, and often move the discussion in practical directions that I would not have considered. What’s wrong with putting embarrassing information on a personal web site? Employers can’t really get that information, can they? The best conversations are invariably something totally unplanned.
-Steve Davis
Sr. VP - Policy and Law
Qwest Communications