ABSTRACT

Ethics are a combination of values and actions. Ethics codes go beyond legal codes into the sometimes confusing world of right and wrong. Ethical behavior is part of most of the world's religions. An emerging reward of ethical behavior involves a process called indirect reciprocity. In recent years, the ethics code of the Word of Mouth Marketing Association has gained increasing respect for its focus on establishing standards for the responsible use of social media within strategic communication. Probably the ethics code that matters most to the people is their personal code. Ethical behavior isn't easy-but its rewards can be deep and lasting. In building those ethical relationships, the people may want to consider these values: honesty, completeness, timeliness and fair distribution. Strategic writing builds productive relationships. Good ethics are a strong foundation for productive relationships that will stand the test of time.