5D

Now that I have chosen my awards title, I can now look into the ethical dimensions of conducting my inquiry.

I will be interviewing people from different career paths including from the world of retail, performance and HR.

I will be conducting both one on one interviews and and focus groups.

I will not need to contact any companies in terms of ethical practices, my ethical practices will lie alone with how I conduct myself in the interviews and focus group.  I will be un-biased as to enable me to have the truest outcome possible.
I will conduct all my ethical practice as I have discussed previously in my blog -
http://hannahzapala.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/my-campus-session-module-2-i-attended.html

Looking at my inquiry, I think the issues I will need to look at are mainly confidentiality. I would not want any of my colleagues and friends that I interview to feel pressurised that their opinions will lead to anything detrimental for their personal careers. 

I will need to be conscious, that although I will know my interviewee's the atmosphere needs to be kept professional - formal but friendly, I want them to feel relaxed and open to discuss all areas of the inquiry.

I havent had many comments or emails with regards to my proposed SIG. So any comments are now more welcome than before - have I covered all of the ethics of my inquiry? I myself cannot think of anything I am missing, but please feel free to point anything out as I want to ensure I have all corners covered!

4D

It has taken me a long time to think about my awards title.  I wanted it to be something which was reflective to my current practice, and what I felt passionately about rather than it just being a means to an end.  After much thought and conversations with my advisor Rosemary I have finally come to a decision.

I initially discussed the idea of further developing the ethical practices within retail buying or retail in general, but I would have had to be very careful in terms of the positives and negatives I chose to discuss, disclosing information without highlighting any retailers in particular - would this have been ethical??  I am still early on on my career path and could not afford to investigate further into a company which could then be detrimental to me in my personal practice.  Although the subject interests me hugely, I have chosen to look at a slightly different inquiry which is also a passion of mine as I have subjected myself to this first-hand (which I don't see necessarily as a negative from a personal point of view) as well as a lot of other colleagues both in my industry and different industries - it will be interesting to investigate this further!

"Interning as a platform for career development".

I believe the above title reflects my knowledge and learning, as I have interned in various companies which I do truly feel has led me to where I am today.

I am excited to get my pilot tools organised and interview different people from various career paths including colleagues in the retail world, performers and HR managers, as i feel I need to see the intern world from many different viewpoints to enable me to gather enough substantial evidence to carry out a full and informative inquiry.

20th November - 3rd Campus Session & 6b

I attended the 3rd campus session on Tuesday with Alan, and it really helped put a lot of things in perspective for me with regards to module 2.

Firstly, I was not aware that we were able to choose part of the tile of our degree, quite literally - BA Hons in Professional Practice (Arts) - the Arts section of the title can be linked to whatever you think necessary within reason.  I am writing this info on my blog, as I was completely unaware of this, and for those of you who can't attend every session, you may have been unaware of this really important factor such as I was!  It's important to discuss with your advisor sooner rather than later as the title you wish to use has to be approved via a board at the university beforehand.

We discussed parts of reader 6, including how to gain information for us to complete our inquiries including focus groups, surveys, interviews and observation.  Which one works for you best in terms of the type of inquiry you will be carrying out.

We split up into groups, and my group looked at the positives and negatives of each tool which we then filmed and can be found on Alan's blog below -

http://adurrant.blogspot.co.uk 

I looked at the positives and negatives of using the survey tool-

Positive

-You may encounter a larger responsive audience, simply due to the physical survey being less time consuming .

-By carrying out a survey the candidates can be anonymous, and therefore have a tendency to be more truthful.

-A survey can be precise and direct to the point, where-as in interview, one can have a tendency to go off on a tangent, with a survey this is not he case.

Negative

-Authenticity can be a big negative, as there can b not enough care or though gone into the survey.

-You may encounter incomplete data.

-Non-egagement is a large factor as you do not have face to face interaction with your audience.

We actually decided in the session, that we had loosely carried out a focus group, conversing supporting each other- inputting ideas, which interestingly enough were actually all closely linked, even though our inquiries are all very different.  In effect this was our pilot focus group!

Personally, my inquiry I think is calling out for one on one personal interviews, as interning is such a personal experience that I will not gather the information I quite need from a survey, I need to have more detailed experiences to gage the level of information I need.
I cannot observe people in the workplace of their internship as this will not only not be very convenient, it would be difficult for me to gain access into a workplace due to rules in place within companies.
I may hold a focus group, as it would be good to hear peoples experiences and how they bounce off one another - it would be great to be part of a debate of the positives and negatives of interning.

Module 2 – Reader 5 – Task 5B

Module 2 – Reader 5 – Task 5B

An interesting article I found online conveys what workplace ethics actually are, I thought this would be interesting to share with everyone, as it really helped me almost ‘label’ what we actually decipher as ‘ethics’…

“Workplace ethics are codes of conduct that influence the development of an ethical culture within the workplace. Going beyond what is considered legal in the area where the business operates, workplace ethics inspire communication between employees, allow for respect to be extended to each person within the organization, and promote customer relationships that are based on honesty and integrity. While there are core elements that tend to define a work-based code of ethics, the specific expressions of these central values vary from one corporate setting to the next”.

“Along with being shaped by laws and regulations, workplace ethics are also influenced by business ethics For example, ethical business practices would include actions such as not using marketing materials or campaigns that mislead consumers. Workplace ethics would also involve establishing and operating support networks such as wellness programs that help employees be healthy and happy. Ethics of this type would also involve the conscious effort to cultivate a working environment where people want to come to work and be productive because of pride in what they do for a living”.

“While businesses tend to comply with laws and regulations set by local jurisdictions, not every company sees the need to develop workplace ethics that affirm the worth of employees and motivate them to be productive on the job. When a company chooses to do no more than what is required by local law, the chances of heavy employee turnover are much higher. In addition, it is easier for cliques to develop among certain groups of employees, a state that can often undermine productivity and cost the company a great deal in terms of time and revenue generation”.

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-workplace-ethics.htm

With regards to my personal ‘code of conduct’, the retailer I work for has a very strong ‘code of ethics and behavior’ which you can read in the link and also pdf link below.

http://corporate.marksandspencer.com/howwedobusiness/our_policies/our_people

http://corporate.marksandspencer.com/documents/specific/investors/governance/code_of_ethics.pdf

published September 2012

Both of the above documents are viewable for anyone, proving how passionate we are for what we stand for.

“We are committed to doing the right thing, the right way”.

Marc Bolland Chief Executive

All M&S employees are required to adhere to the Code and the policies it refers to. We all have a responsibility to protect the Company’s reputation in everything we do and say. We are to ensure that we have thoroughly read, understood and act in accordance with the Code and the various policies embedded in it. M&S want their employees to understand why this is important and what is expected of all employees.

It is imperative that we represent ourselves properly, as otherwise it can be detrimental to the brand.  I am passionate to work for the brand and therefore agree and apply myself daily to the code of conduct expected of me.  It sounds a little regimented when I say it like this, but working for one of the UK’s most ethically proven companys Is brilliant as I can literally practice what I preach!

I have also found a couple of interesting articles on ethical trading standards, showing how ethics are applied within retail –

http://www.ethicaltrade.org/in-action/people/louise-nicholls

A brilliant quote taken from the above is…

“In future, ethics should be as important as quality for all businesses”.

I agree whole heartedly with the above article, and if you are interested in trading standards, read the above for an insight!

Another interesting article with regards to ethical standards, and how Marks & Spencer set out plans to become the world's most sustainable retailer by 2015 can be found in the below it includes a little info on PLAN A (http://plana.marksandspencer.com/about), our strategy launched in January 2007, setting out 100 commitments to achieve in 5 years. We've now extended Plan A to 180 commitments to achieve by 2015, with the ultimate goal of becoming the world's most sustainable major retailer.

Through Plan A we are working with our customers and our suppliers to combat climate change, reduce waste, use sustainable raw materials, trade ethically, and help our customers to lead healthier lifestyles. It has been named Plan A, as unfortunately there is no Plan B!

http://www.standard.co.uk/business/marks--spencer-aims-to-lead-world-in-ethical-trading-6728440.html

Module 2 – Rader 5 – Task A

Module 2 – Rader 5 – Task A

Definition of ethics

plural noun

•   1 [usually treated as plural] moral principles that govern a person’s behaviour or the conducting of an activity: medical ethics also enter into the question



2 [usually treated as singular] the branch of knowledge that deals with moral principles: neither metaphysics nor ethics is the home of religion

http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/ethics

I have never been asked to consider my ethics within the workplace quite so literally.  I guess, subconsciously you apply your ethics on a daily basis, but they are not necessarily rules you abide by, they are simply a way of ones life.  My ethics may alter slightly from my personal life to my professional life, as in the workplace I adhere to the code of conduct within my practice that are set in place, they will also vary on the situations I come across.  In theory I would say my ethics in the workplace are affected by my peers, as I have learnt the do’s and dont’s from what is deemed acceptable and unacceptable – for example to address suppliers in a polite and professional manner, not ‘You alright babe’.

I have listed below in a general format the ethics I currently implement in my practice. 

Behaviour:

I mange peers below me, therefore I treat others how I wish to be treated and try to lead by example, learning from those above me.

We have a great working atmosphere in the workplace, but there must be boundaries that all are aware of between work and play.  It has to be addressed to ensure these boundaries are not threatened – in an industry such-as mine deadlines are so tight there is no room for movement, therefore there has to be a level of constant professionalism simply to ensure the ‘job gets done’, as each individual is wholly accountable.

Communication:

Communication is key I would think to any job role.  It is easy to fall under the rails and become lost in an industry particularly one like mine and my previous industry working in the theatre – in large industries such as these, especially when you are at the bottom of your career ladder your are that little fish playing in the big pond.  Stay in tune with yourself.

It is important that I stay involved with my team in terms of communicating - ask questions and share problems and I will inevitably continue to learn and grow as a professional.

Language:

I must always be aware of the language I use in the workplace, as obviously offensive language is simply not acceptable.  I am friends with many people in the workplace, but must always be aware of maintaining that professional level, especially when dealing with other areas of the business and suppliers/external peers. Again address and converse with people in the manner how I would wish to be spoken to.

Punctuality:

In a world where you are the hands behind the product and customers are reliant on you for their trusted products, every second is valuable.  It is also linked to over-all character impressions, in an industry where no-one has very much spare time - timing is critical.

Presentation:

Working in an industry driven initially by fashion, it helps to be dressed appropriately, your fashion sense I believe is also a huge part of who you are and I’m lucky enough to work in an industry where this can be expressed and welcomed.  It is also imperative to wear the correct clothing and shoes particularly if one is presenting to levels of seniority.

I’m sure there are other so many 'work ethics' I have not mentioned that I will come to realise I practice daily as my study continues.  Once I continue to breakdown my ethics and find out the expected ‘code of conduct’ at my workplace, I will be able to distinguish my ‘ethical actions’ even further.

Module 2 – 4d

Module 2 – 4d

It has taken me a long time to even think about my awards title and what would iterest me enough (being completely honest) and what I could continue to learn from in my practice, and I have come up with the following ideas...

BA Hons Professional Practice in Retail Buying.

BA Hons Professional Practice investigating Ethics within Retail Buying.

BA Hons Professional Practice investigating Un-paid Internships.

Unfortunately/fortunately this is still a WIP, I will blog finalities once I know myself!!  I am meeting with Rosemary y advisor before our next session so will hopefully shed some light on some things!  I hope so!

I feel like the above titles all interest me – title 1 can be very broad, but am I limiting myself in the 2^nd and 3^rd titles – or just adjusting the focus?

My reflections and answered questions can play into all 3 titles which is great, alongside a lot of further research of course.

It is also important to me that I acknowledge my previous training and my current relative experience including numerous internships.  

As Ahmet Ahmet* stated on his blog for this reader “My experience is a valuable thing and is something that makes me stand out. I want my title to encompass what I have done, what I do now and what I want to do whilst expressing my expertise in my field too’”.  I couldn’t agree more!

Module 2 – 4c Part B, Questions developed further

Module 2 – 4c Part B, Questions developed further

After looking at my answers from past and current practitioners I have developed my questions even further, and included some direct questions on both interning and ethical standards..

The 'b's are my newly developed questions...

1)      What makes a good buyer?

1b) What are the sought after characteristics of a successful buyer?

2)      Does having an interest in fashion and interiors inevitably mean you will be a good buyer in this field?

2b)Will having an interest in your chosen field benefit you in being successful?

3)      Does having a degree in your subject ie. Fashion/interiors related, but no experience make you a valuable buying team member? Or does having practitioner experience but not a degree make a better buying team member?

3b) If you were to employ someone to be part of the buying team in your compay - one candidate has a degree and the other has over 3 years relevant practitioner experience, which of the two would be more appealing to you and why?

4)     Are practitioners that do have a relevant degree more knowledgeable, and if so does this make a difference in the work-place?

4b) Some practitioners have  a degree. Are they more knowledgeable? How would you argue this?

5)      Are you respected more in your profession working for the buying team of a retailer if you have been an experienced practitioner in your field, ie had a large amount of work experience (such-as interning) specifically in this field?

5b) Developed- Experienced practitioners are more respected. Is this statement true or false and how do you feel about this statement?

6)     Do ex-performers choose a completely different career route,  so as not to be reminded of the carer they chose to leave behind? Eg. The next best thing.

6b) Do ex-performers focus their energies on forming a succesful career in a different field because they want to share a passion for their subject, or is it so as not to be reminded of tbe career they have left behind?

7)     Are buyers that work in homeware related departments affected by fashion trends?

7b) Are homeware buyers affected by the fashion trends? Discuss.

8)     Do you think the theatre world is affected at all by the world of fashion?

8b) Do you believe the world of theatre and fashion are incredulously linked, and if so how?

9)     Are you expected to be ‘creative’ to work in a fashion based industry within the buying team?

9b) Are you more inclined to be successful in this field, if you have creative tendancies?

Newly added questions -

10) What are your viewpoints on Interning, unpaid employment.  Do you think it is necessary for the buying or retail industry in general?  It seems to be more sought after in this industry than ever before, do you agree with this or not, please discuss?

11) Ethical standards for the retailer I work for are very 'high' so to speak.  Do you agree with this, are these necessary?

I will blog my answers with regards to my new questions, as I am really hoping I might be moving (fingers massively crossed) in a good direction now for my inquiry!