Job ethic, job ethics

Question

Hi. I'm finding this to be a very helpful site.

Here's my question: how does one use "job ethic" versus "job ethics"? I actually use "work ethic," "professional ethics" but I need to confirm whether "job ethic" and "job ethics" are used.

I also find this sentence awkward: "Here are ten job ethics to observe in the workplace." Is "Here are some principles (or rules or guidelines) for professional behavior (or of a strong work ethic?)" better? Examples of the "ten job ethics" are "Refrain from criticizing others; rather, offer solutions to problems" and "Be good stewards of company equipment and time."

Thanks!

BarbaraPA · Accepted Answer

A "work ethic" means you care about donig a good job at work. You come to work on time, you work hard while you're there, you don't spend your time there texting, taking longer breaks than you are entitled to, or try to leave early when no one is looking. It's about your personally. I would NOT use "job ethic" for this.

Menawhile, "professional ethics" refers to your industry or your entire company. You don't steal other people's ideas, you report problems when you become aware of them, you protect people who raise problems to people's attention, etc. I would NOT use "job ethics" for this.

In your awkward sentence, I agree. Ethical practices, perhaps. But "Offer solutions" is not "ethical" behavior. It's good business sense. On the other hand "Be a good steward" is ethcial behavior.

I think your intuitive sense is right on the money.

Welcome to the forums.

Sarcandra · Answer

Thanks! Ethical practices it is, then.

Job ethic, job ethics

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