Recently I had a meeting with a young mother from India in a café in southern Germany. We enjoyed the cappuccino and the delicious Swabian cake.
As the weather signaled rain, we looked for the waitress and told her that we were in a hurry to leave. The young mother insisted on paying the bill, I had agreed and did not watch the payment process.
Late in the evening I received a whatsapp message from her that she had found out that the waitress had mistakenly forgotten to charge an item and she would like to pay for it. I told her not to worry and went back to the cafe the next day, enjoyed the cappuccino and their famous pepper biscuits. I paid my bill and the balance from the evening before. The waitress appreciated it and thanked me for the payment.
A guest sitting next to me observed and commented that it was karma. No, not exactly, I told him, this is a classic example of ethical behavior and integrity, even though it may seem counterintuitive at first glance.
The young mother’s behavior demonstrates the importance of honesty, integrity and fairness in business, even when faced with difficult situations.
The Importance of Honesty and Integrity
– Trustworthiness: Paying the full amount, even if it was a mistake, shows honesty and trustworthiness. This builds a strong foundation for future interactions.
– Fairness: It’s important to treat others fairly, even when there’s a chance to benefit from a mistake. This fosters a positive and equitable environment.
The concept of “win-win” in business 
– Long-term relationships: While “win-win” often means both parties benefit immediately, it can also refer to building strong, long-term relationships. By being honest and fair in this situation, you’ve shown that you’re a trustworthy business partner.
– Reputation: A strong reputation for honesty and integrity can be invaluable in business. It can lead to more opportunities, referrals and customer loyalty.
The ethical dilemma of taking advantage
– Short-term gain vs. long-term loss: While it may have been tempting to keep the extra money, the potential consequences of dishonesty could outweigh any short-term gain. A damaged reputation or strained relationship could have negative long-term effects.
– Moral Compass: Ethical behavior is about doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult. It’s about aligning your actions with your personal values and beliefs.
