WBO Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics: Women Business Owners of Northeast Florida (WBO-NEFL)

Introduction

Women Business Owners of Northeast Florida (WBO-NEFL) is a member-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering, promoting, and supporting women business owners through education, networking, and advocacy. Our members are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct in their businesses and within our organization.

This Code of Ethics serves as a guiding framework to ensure that all members uphold the values and mission of WBO-NEFL while fostering a culture of trust, collaboration, and respect. 

1. Integrity & Professionalism

1. Conduct business with honesty, transparency, and accountability.

2. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism in all interactions with members, clients, and the community.

3. Represent WBO-NEFL with dignity and refrain from actions including any internal or external, and online communications that could harm its reputation. 

1.1. Professional Communications

1. Members should maintain a respectful and professional tone in all digital interactions related to WBO-NEFL, including social media, emails, and group chats.

2. Negative or defamatory remarks about the organization, its members, or leadership should be avoided. Constructive feedback should be addressed through appropriate internal channels.

3. Personal disputes between members should not be aired on public or private digital platforms associated with WBO-NEFL.

4. To maintain a respectful and inclusive organization, members are expected to avoid using internal communication channels for discussions of controversial or sensitive topics such as politics or religion. These conversations should be kept outside of official platforms to ensure a professional environment for all.

2. Respect & Inclusivity

1. Foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all members, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic background.

2. Treat all members with respect, courtesy, and fairness.

3. Encourage and support diverse perspectives and voices within the organization.

4. All members should make an effort to be inclusive at events by welcoming new attendees and engaging in diverse conversations.

5. Discriminatory comments, even if unintended, should be acknowledged and corrected if brought to attention.

6. Members should avoid forming exclusive groups that discourage participation from others.

3. Confidentiality & Trust

1. Respect the confidentiality of all business and personal information shared within WBO-NEFL.

2. Do not use privileged information for personal gain or to harm another member’s business.

3. Honor the privacy of members and avoid unsolicited solicitation or misuse of member directories.

4.1. Support, Disputes, & Conflicts

1. Actively contribute to the success and growth of fellow members.

2. Engage in open and constructive communication while respecting differing viewpoints.

3. Foster mentorship and knowledge-sharing to uplift women business owners.
   

4.2. Disputes with Leadership

1. Members should address concerns with leadership directly and professionally through scheduled discussions or written communications.

2. If a resolution cannot be reached, a member may request mediation through an Ethics Committee. See Conflict Resolution Policy.

3. Public complaints or gossip about leadership decisions should be avoided to maintain organizational integrity.

4.3. Conflicts with Members

1. Members should first attempt to resolve conflicts privately and respectfully.

2. If a resolution cannot be reached, either party may seek mediation through WBO-NEFL leadership.

3. Personal attacks, bullying, or spreading misinformation about another member will not be tolerated.

5. Ethical Business Practices

1. Committed to operating businesses in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.

2. Provide honest representation of products and services without deceptive or misleading claims.

3. Avoid conflicts of interest that could undermine the integrity of WBO-NEFL.

6. Community Support, Engagement & Advocacy

1. Actively contribute to the success and growth of fellow members.

2. Support the mission of WBO-NEFL by actively participating in events, initiatives, and advocacy efforts that benefit women business owners.

3. Serve as a positive ambassador for women in business by promoting economic and professional empowerment.

4. Give back to the community through mentorship, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

7. Conflict Resolution & Accountability

1. Address any disputes or concerns with professionalism and a spirit of resolution.

2. Seek mediation through WBO-NEFL leadership if conflicts arise between members.

3. Members found in violation of this Code of Ethics may be subject to review and appropriate actions, including warnings, suspension, or removal from the organization.

4. For additional information see the Bylaws: Section 5 and theBoard Procedures Manual: Section Conflict Resolution Policy.

 

Commitment to Ethical Conduct

By becoming a member of Women Business Owners of Northeast Florida, I acknowledge and pledge to uphold this Code of Ethics. I commit to conducting myself in alignment with the values and mission of WBO-NEFL and to fostering a culture of professionalism, integrity, and support within the organization.

Version 2. Last Updated March 24, 2025. Board Approved April 25, 2025