Impacts of digital technology on wider society - EduqasProfessional standards

In the world of work, all employees are expected to behave professionally. This includes following certain expectations set by employers to create a safe, respectful and trusted environment for their employees. These are known as professional standards, which include both formal and informal codes of behaviour.

Formal codes

A formal code is a written set of rules, which employees are asked to read, agree to and sign.

Some examples are:

• acceptable use policies – these set out expectations on how employees are expected to use computers, emails and the internet while at work
• internet access policies – these outline and set expectations for employees on prohibited activities, for example: downloading or uploading inappropriate content, excessive personal use of company computers during work hours, internet usage monitoring and consequences of breaking the policy.

All work policies that are formally written and signed are classified as “formal codes”.

Informal codes

While not always written down explicitly, informal codes will be mentioned in policies. They are a general expectation, covering areas such as:

• expectations - showing respect to colleagues and customers; being kind to everyone you interact with
• habits – being punctual, helping colleagues, dressing appropriately, respecting the space of others, being reliable
• personal integrity - honesty and taking responsibility for your actions; treating matters confidentially.

Formal and informal codes are important in the workplace to ensure a professional working environment for everyone.