If you’re searching for your next opportunity in commercial print, mail, or graphic communications, here’s something to consider beyond the job description and salary: Is this a place where I’ll feel respected, safe, and supported?
Workplace ethics might sound like a company problem, but they’re also a personal career issue. When you work somewhere with unclear expectations, toxic communication, or inconsistent leadership, it’s easy to feel burned out, isolated, or uncertain about your future.
At PrintWorkers, we work with thousands of professionals in skilled trades, creative roles, tech and management. We’ve learned that ethics and culture matter—especially in environments with tight deadlines, team collaboration, and hands-on production.
What Does an Ethical Workplace Look Like?
An ethical employer doesn’t have to be perfect—but they do need to be clear. Here’s what to look for in your next workplace:
- Clear policies and procedures: Are expectations around safety, respect, and fairness communicated up front?
- Respectful communication: Do managers and coworkers treat each other professionally and kindly, even under pressure?
- Consistency in enforcement: Are rules applied equitably?
- Support for speaking up: Is there a way to report concerns without fear of retaliation?
- Commitment to growth: Does the company invest in training, career development, or performance feedback?
You have a right to work in an environment where you feel safe and valued. If a company is vague about its values, ignores workplace issues, or sweeps problems under the rug, that’s a red flag.
What Can You Do to Support Ethics at Work?
You don’t have to be in HR to promote ethical behavior. Here are some ways to contribute to a positive workplace:
- Speak up early and respectfully if you notice unsafe or unfair behavior.
- Model professionalism in how you treat coworkers and clients.
- Ask about values during interviews—questions like “How does your company handle conflict resolution?” or “How do you ensure a respectful workplace?” show you care.
- Support new coworkers by helping them learn the ropes in a positive way.
At the end of the day, your workplace should be one where you can do your best work and feel good about how it’s accomplished. The good news? Many companies in the print and graphic communications industries are taking ethics seriously—and PrintWorkers is here to connect you with the ones that do.
Launching a Series on Ethics for Workers in Print & Graphics
We’re launching an occasional series focused on the role of ethics in the workplace—from your perspective. Whether you’re a press operator, designer, estimator, or supervisor, you deserve a workplace grounded in values you can believe in. In future posts, we’ll cover what ethical workplaces look like in practice and how you can help build one by exploring topics like:
- Accountability and professionalism
- Honesty and transparency from leadership
- Respect for coworkers and clients
- Integrity and fairness in workplace decisions
- Addressing violations promptly and constructively
- Positive communication and collaboration
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving
- Recognizing and rewarding ethical actions
- Environmental and social responsibility
- Constantly evaluating your company’s ethical code
- Advocating for your needs and those of your team
- Creating safe, inclusive channels for reporting concerns
- Encouraging a culture of empathy and compliance
Watch for upcoming posts in this series that will help you recognize, support, and thrive in ethical workplaces across the commercial print and graphics industries. Ready to find a company that aligns with your values? We’re here to help.