Professor Welch
January 30, 2015
Business Ethics
Google’s Code of Conduct “Don’t be evil.” Google employees generally apply those words to how we serve our users. It’s about providing their users unbiased access to information, focusing on their needs and giving them the best products and services that Google can. But it’s also about doing the right thing more generally – following the law, acting honorably and treating each other with respect. It’s built around the recognition that everything they do in connection with the work at Google will be, and should be, measured against the highest possible standards of ethical business conduct. We set the bar that high for practical as well as ambitious reasons: the commitment to the highest standards helps them hire great people, build great products, and attract loyal users. Trust and mutual respect among employees and users are the foundation of our success, and they are something Google earns every day. The reputation as a company that users can trust is Google’s most valuable asset, and it is up to all of us to make sure that we continually earn that trust. All of our communications and other interactions with our users should increase their trust in us. The products, features and services should make Google more useful for all users. We have many different types of users, from individuals to large businesses, but one guiding principle: “Is what we are offering useful?” Part of being useful and honest is being responsive: Google recognizes relevant user feedback when we see it, and we do something about it. We take pride in responding to communications from our users, whether questions, problems or compliments. If something is broken, fix it. Google is committed to a supportive work environment, where employees have the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. Each Google employee is expected to do his or her greatest to create a respectful workplace culture that is free of