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DO UNTO OTHERS…
Guidebook
When confronted with a difficult HR situation, we might ask, “What does our company value—just human resources or human relations as well?” Are these soft issues just for softies, or might we all invoke some ancient wisdom?
Although the HR Department must focus on adherence to laws, compliance policies, diversity goals, and employee handbooks, a steady diet of such legalities required of our companies can push aside our natural concern for others. Along with legal requirements, is there room to consider the principle of treating others as we want to be treated? After all, we are dealing with human beings, often in complex situations.
I certainly intended for our new HR Handbook to follow the law, but I called it a Guidebook to suggest we use whatever flexibility and common sense were permissible in a situation. Our Guidebook explicitly told us to keep the Golden Rule in mind. Even a subliminal respect for the Golden Rule might seep into our thinking. If it only reminded me, it was a lodestar.
Do the Right Thing
During the unfolding of a hard situation for a client who had crossed the legal line, one of my law partners told me, “You never go wrong by doing the right thing.” It sounded so corny and unsophisticated, but it remains quite a reminder. Decades later, long after my partner’s death, when my personal compass seems to be losing its bearings, I hear him uttering those words to me.
In Addition to the Law
We must follow the law. Along with that obligation, is there room for further thoughtfulness: The Golden Rule. What would Jesus do? Do the right thing.
We might be more comfortable with one phrase and not the others, but they all provide daily guidance. I hope they remind me to do the right thing – as best I can – while observing the legal requirements.
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I hope they remind you too.
