Which of the following is a primary goal of having ethical standards in an organization?

Having ethical standards in an organization primarily aims to promote trust and integrity among employees. When an organization establishes a clear set of ethical guidelines, it creates an environment where employees feel valued and secure. This fosters open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect, which are all critical components of a healthy workplace culture.

Trust is essential in any organization, as it allows team members to work together more effectively, share ideas without fear of judgment, and make decisions aligned with the organization's values. Integrity reinforces the belief that everyone is held to the same standards, which enhances accountability and cultivates a sense of community. When employees trust each other and their organization, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and aligned with the organization’s goals.

While gaining competitive advantage may be a secondary benefit of a strong ethical framework, and establishing a clear hierarchy or addressing employee turnover could be considerations, the primary focus of ethical standards is indeed to build a foundation of trust and integrity. This positive environment benefits not only the employees but also contributes to the overall success of the organization.