Am I the only person who believes that corporate integrity is crumbling in Canada? Last year, some of our favourite grocers were caught adding the weight of packaging to the price of their meat. This month, the Canadian Investment Regulatory Authority warned of fraudulent investment scams. So is business integrity out of fashion in Canada?
Small Business Owners Should Retain Their Integrity
It can be a tough call to maintain high standards, when we hear of top government officials taking chances. Especially when cash flow is tight, and we suspect some of our competitors are cutting corners.
We all feel the impact of tariffs coming online across the border, directly or indirectly. But I believe in maintaining the same high standards throughout every project we do.
But this is not just the right, moral thing to do. That’s because I believe it will also help my business maintain its reputation, as a company you can trust. Business integrity may be falling out of fashion in Canada, but we shall continue doing things the right way.
Being Authentic and Genuine Makes Business Sense
I am in the business of providing eavestroughing and exterior renovation services in Calgary, Alberta. I am a customer myself, and therefore I want to do business with people I believe in. Therefore, we always purchase our materials from suppliers that I know we can trust.
We are all human, as the saying goes. I believe my customers are naturally drawn to a supplier they can trust too. Throughout my long years in business, I have steadfastly branded myself with transparent integrity.
The key to our success has always been fair prices, quality workmanship, and warranties that stand. We have grown our business on four firm foundations, and they are carrying us through these uncertain times. Business integrity has always been in fashion with us!
Four Ways I Measure Our Business Integrity
- BE HONEST: Be honest with our customers, our team and ourselves. Agree on a price and what we will deliver. Stand by our undertakings.
- BE FAIR: Never take on work that interferes with our current commitments. Deliver exceptional work. The orders will take care of themselves.
- PLAN WELL: Know the scope of each project in advance. Plan jobs carefully as a team, involving those who will do the work. Make sure we are ready before we start.
- STAND FIRM: Never compromise on these principles, even if it costs a sale. People will respect us for our consistency. These are the like minded customers we reach out to.
Business integrity will always be in fashion with us, and that’s my personal promise!
Martin Straczek. Business Owner of Valiant Exteriors
With Acknowledgement to Medium.Com
Further Thoughts