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Inc and Fast Company Reader Comments on the PledgeShel entered his Business Ethics Pledge campaign in both the Inc Magazine Entrepreneur of the Year and Fast Company Fast 50 Awards. Many readers had wonderful things to say, some of which we reproduce here.Comments from Inc 500 Page
This man's integrity and the practical quality of his publications are rare and wonderful in these current times. We need a man (or woman) like him for each and every year!
I always listen to Shel. In fact I recommend Shel's books and other services several times in my new book THE FRUGAL BOOK PROMOTER: HOW TO DO WHAT YOUR PUBLISHER WON'T. No higher praise (for me (-: ) than that! Carolyn Howard-Johnson Award-winning author of This is the Place and Harkening
One's goal should be "high" and even if you fall short you exceed where you would be if you had no goal. I think this pledge is a "high" and "worthy" goal that can be adopted by many.
On ya Shel.
I have to agree with Shel. This needs to be done and pledged to by all businesses. To that end, we, in Vermont, are working towards this goal within our own small business community.
Let's hope someone pays attention. Thanks, Shel, for starting the ball rolling.
I am going to add this to my business proposals.
This is a pledge that our business leaders should take seriously. I have my fingers crossed.
Well said! I'm glad someone is standing up for ethical American business owners and saying we will not let the bad guys win. A wonderful concept from an author I'm familiar with. If anyone can get the ball rolling, Horowitz can.
Shel is a sincere individual that sees beyond the bottom line.
I participated in a phone workshop with Mr. Horowitz and he seems to be a man of integrity. I like his pledge.
It will take many of us doing this to change the world to working in a way that benefits all of us. 25,000 is a great starting point: do-able, and with broad reach. Excellent idea from a respected marketing professional
A great expression of what's needed to put our society back in balance. Good on you Shel- Where do I sign???
As Victor Hugo said, "There is one thing stronger than all the armies in the world, and that is an idea whose times has come." Surely the time has come for the American business community to sign up for this pledge. Practical idealism is a path to positive change
I think any step in an ethical direction has to be a good one!
I'm familiar with Shel's efforts - and I've read his book. I think he's exactly on-target; if more entrepreneurs would attack issues such as corporate greed, we wouldn't need the government's ham-handed attempts to regulate-after-the-fact. I strongly endorse this effort. Ned Barnett CEO Barnett Marketing Communications
Shel, Congratulations on the above. We need more like you. Regards Roy
Shel's campaign is greatly heartening for professionals, business owners, and the public. His social responsibility and work will make a needed change. I don't see any other candidates doing work of this nature.
Now, if we can just get everyone to do this at once... Its definitely worth a try!
Consistently, Shel Horowitz has been a beacon of hope for those of us trying to make it in business honestly. He's a tireless crusader for independent business people. Shel Horowitz stresses use of the Golden Rule in business dealings. I respect his values and desire to spread his philosophy through the business community.
In my opinion Shel Horowitz is an extremely dedicated marketing expert. His books and advice are very well written and contain solid, honest and useable marketing information. Honesty, integrity, and quality in business... that is what we need more since 911 and Enron... CARE
Shel truly practices what he preaches. This is a powerful initiative that is truly making a difference.
Shel has given me many uplifting articles over the past few years and I eagerly look forward to his monthly comments.
I support him 100% ! I am going to make this part of an employees' pledge to this firm. American Security Network.com
It's so rare to meet a mensch in the business world. Shel Horowitz puts his money--and his energy and passion and time--where his mouth is. If everyone signed his pledge the world would be a better place.
Very true, Good business ethics are so important nowadays. Honesty, Fairness, and treating people as you would like to be treated will not only set a good precedent,but insure a sound business practice that will exceed in an extraordinary way.
Here's a bandwagon worth jumping on! Kudos to you for making a difference!
As the author of The NEW Game of Business, I support Shel 100%. The "old" game of "winning is everything" is over; a new game called, "winning is only a thing" is here. Ethics are the core of sustaining a fair and vibrant marketplace. Kudos to Shel for creating this movement. I heartily endorse. Mitch Axelrod, author The NEW Game of Business http://thenewgame.com
Shel is always thinking and putting his plans into action. A real self-actualized guy! More than ever, people like Shel Horowitz are needed to bring this country around.
I love Shel's grassroots approach to reclaiming our trust in business by pledging allegiance to ethical practices. We've seen some bad behavior from companies in recent years -- companies that "should have known better." We've also seen the consequences of their practices -- with our economy and the livelihood of thousands affected. Trying to make everyone accountable - from the top to the bottom of the ladder - is simply a great way to educate people -- that they certainly have the power to stop wayward businesses in their tracks. Incredible perspectives and articulate communication. Integrity just oozes from this man.
Shel's aspiration to make a difference makes this statement outstanding, because he is actually taking steps that WILL make a difference and encouraging a snowball effect that will matter.
Wouldn't it be nice if we could return to high ethical standards in our country?
I have always been a follower of Shel and his philosophy of doing business and the idea of unlimited abundance which means competition, favoritism and dirty tricks are unnecessary in order to be successful. There is always room for everybody to be successful beyond measure.
Shel's dedication to marketing ethically pushes every business person to rethink what they do and why. But it's not that hard to run an ethical business--it just means you have to pay attention. Shel shows the way to make being in business respectable again. This is a pledge I would sign in a heartbeat (although I don't know 100 other business leaders!), with high praise and appreciation for Shel's high principles and foresight. What better way to combat corruption than from the inside out! Go Shel!
What a fabulous way to ensure the integrity of our future and society as a whole! Kudos!
I love Shel's views and insights on marketing and business practices. It would an awesome honor to businesses with integrity all around the globe if Shel wins. We operate our company by this policy. It rocks! If only more would follow.
Fantastic! This is something that's l o n g overdue in this country (and world). Way to go! This is terrific!! This person deserves the prize
This is one of the most important areas that businesses need to pay attention to. It will bring more respect & customer loyalty than anything else. I take my hat off to Shel Horowitz for taking this stand & writing his book that explains the importance of this issue.
In the '90's, I had the unfortunate opportunity to work for embezzlers, who ran a "New Age" company. I wholly support Shel's efforts to eradicate such repulsive behavior, wherever it shows up! Shel's pledge is great. One small step to showing that ethical business is possible -and worth fighting for.
Thank you for creating this pledge. It is absolutely the "heart change" we need in America. Profits don't let you sleep in peace at night, but ethical, moral living with respect for others certainly does. Profits come when we focus on the right things. As my mom always says, "Be sure your sins will find you out." Too bad the Enrons of the world did not take heed.
This man really cares about helping people!
This is good stuff! This is a path that leads to true success.
Small businesses can easily embrace this pledge of integrity; the true need is for this concept to be taken seriously by the big players, who seem to think they are exempt from any code of "fair play." Here's hoping that Shel's rock-solid credibility in the business world will help to convince even those big players to help create a more principled business environment.
Shel Horowitz is not only a wise business man who gives freely of his experience, he is also a front runner in the re-invigorated movement towards ethical business.
Shel's newsletters and articles always have good, easy-to-use, practical advice. His Principled Profit book is excellent and I believe the world would be a much better place if everyone signed Shel's ethical pledge. How different the world would be if everyone behaved this way! Shel walks the talk. I've known him for 14 years, have had the honor of working with him on several projects and have ALWAYS found him to be thoroughly sincere, ethical, smart and creative. With his ethical pledge, Shel Horowitz may single-handedly do for businesses what Ralph Nader did for consumers - bring us out of the dark ages and into an era of enlightenment where cooperative competition with integrity and service will rule the day.
I have enjoyed Shel's newsletter for quite some time now. The pledge is brilliant: now if corporate America were to take it - then live by it!
Thanks, Shel, for standing up for the ethical business owners. There should be more people like you who stand up for your convictions.
A top quality professional. Delivers on his promises, a beacon in the world of commerce.
It's about time we not only speak out, but take action on what we really believe. Let's become the new leaders of an inspired and ethical world.
Every business *should* be honestly and ethically run... but they aren't. Sad. Thank God for Shel Horowitz and his commitment to helping the business community. This is one pledge I couldn't wait to sign -- and brag about. Fantastic job, Shel!
Shel's work is outstanding, practical, and should be on the minds of every executive who wants to take a trustful leadership role in their world. A strong ethical base is required for strong business relationships that add value to the business and the customers they serve. Shel gives leaders the tools necessary to build this foundation.
As an independent consultant to businesses, I will add this clause to my own contracts! This is a fundamental and necessary assumption.
Even though most of us consider our business practices honest, in the face of so many business scandals, it's great to have someone who does more than pay lip service, but is actively doing something to improve the corporate culture of America.
More people need to think and talk about the compatibility of doing good and doing well. they are not mutually exclusive!
Observe, emulate, propagate!
This pledge is akin to what I've practice for my entire career. Now I've got written words to spell for others what I practice. Let each of us who take the pledge be part of the movement to bring honest, ethical practices back to the forefront of business dealings.
Fifteen years ago, I fired a marketing consultant because he told me I was "too honest" to be in business! I believed in the critical importance of business ethics then, and I believe in critical importance of business ethics even more today. I am proud that I signed the pledge and encourage every business owner to do so.
By not tolerating crooked practices in your business, you'll help the world to become a better place to live. That's why I vote Shel for The Entrepreneur of the Year.
My company completely agrees with the principles expressed by Shel. We have always followed Shel's ethical principles in the conduct of our business. I signed his pledge and urge other business owners to do likewise. We do not need another Enron! http://www.diamondsngoldjewelrybyspottedpony.com/
Shel Horowitz has started something wonderful. When a small group of committed people are prepared to put others before themselves, history has shown that amazing things happen! Brian Austin, Author, http://InternetTIPS.com
I wholeheartedly support the grassroots approach to fostering integrity in our culture. Beginning with a business-oriented pledge equals personal accountability that can only result in positive results in ones immediate circle (including personal relationships, business practices, and workplace ethics). As a small business owner, I believe firmly that while individually my business does not have the influence or impact of an Enron, as part of the greater force of small business owners, my choices do make a difference. By taking this stand, and making this pledge, we CAN effect change.
As I have contibuted to improvements at the company where I work, Shel's words are useful - a guiding light.
What an outstanding individual! Everything he stands for makes sense. Comments from Fast Co Page
I've a rare opportunity of supporting a colleague who is rebuilding his entire career around the Positive Power of Principled Profit in his nomination to the Fast 50 within Fast Company's competition. (business magazine)
Shel's efforts and accomplishments with this project prove the point that a single voice matters in making a huge difference in the world. He is also living proof that the difference can be made without it costing money. There's no doubt in my mind Shel can and will accomplish his goal of dramatically and positively changing the tide in business ethics.
When I was invited to become a partner in a small print-on-demand trade press, one of the first things I did was ensure our relationship with those whose books we published was as fair as it was possible to be. Confronted by the bias against POD, we chose to stay with it because it's the least wasteful way to produce books. Shel Horowitz's ethical business practices, while not unique, are nevertheless a perfect fit for us, and would be for anyone who cares about the future.
Margaret Mead, the famous anthropologist, said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." I have witnessed this power in my own life and I applaud Shel for initiating a new, moral business protocol. We need to replace the zero-sum games of the past with the win-win propositions of the future.
I salute Shel for his efforts and wish him every success.
This pledge can change our world...and it does need changing...because no matter what new technology is invented...it is always the human heart, mind and spirit that will create the most lasting change.
In times of moral crisis, this is exactly what we need: Business leaders that help to shape a better society besides running successful business.
Who says business can't clean up its act? Anything worthwhile starts from nothing; then a small seed develops; a shoot; a sapling; a full-grown tree. In time, you can have a forest. And so on. Perhaps Margaret Mead sums up best why Shel Horowitz's ethical business pledge is such a wonderful idea and can make all the difference: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
At first I thought, "Just another marketing stunt", then I started reading and researching. I agree with every word of Shel's pledge and I am convinced that Shel is sincere in his quest for a better business world and I'm going to stand by his side. I'll promote this great concept anyway I can, not only because it's important, it's about time!
Of course, it's a shame that business ethics are "cutting edge," but Shel's just the man to bring these concerns to a larger public. I'm grateful that he's doing this.
When I started my own business many of Shel's posts to list on Internet business and marketing were extremely helpful and thought provoking. Over the years I've watched and thought much about the things that he had to say. When the Pledge came along it so clearly aligned with my own principles and interests I had to sign it. (And you just have to love the one man campaign against the Enrons of the world.)
Shel's is an important voice for long overdue change. I ask everyone who reads this to seriously consider adding their voice to support his call for positive, and profitable, change.
Shel is being extremely proactive. He identified a problem that will continue to haunt American businesses and said let's do something positive and constructive. This is what entrepreneur really means.
In a world where our ethics reach new lows every day, Shel's initiative to bring ethics awareness to the business world is refreshing. With Shel's focus and enthusiasm, I'm sure that the word will spread rapidly.
This is a great example of how daily commitment and recommitment to standards and principles can 'raise' the level for those an 'ordinary' person (being one many people can easily identify with) touches as he goes through his usual day.
Shel is a visionary practicing active politics of change. With his ethical commitment pledge campaign those who are serious about making a difference quickly move to the frontline.Bravo to a creative business culturist blazing into the future with full frontal faith. He is empowered and is empowering us all to help the dawn awaken it's truest light.
I was thrilled to find a way to spread the ideas expressed by Shel Horowitz because I believe in these ethical ways of doing business and Shel has given me ways to spread them. Fran Civile, Alki Gift Basket Services alkigift@comcast.net
Shel's ethics and work habits confirm that honesty and word of honor are not dead!!!
I've been following this campaign, and participating in it as appropriate. I think that Shel is doing what big business (and all business) needs to do - put ethics way out front, and lead by example. If business is to rise above the scandals of the late 90s, ethics will be the path to success. I live and work in a town (Vegas) rife with unethical behavior - it's almost the "norm." I have achieved my own success by standing by a strong code of ethics - I stand out, and people notice, and that attracts other clients (almost always, ethical ones - the others I won't deal with). So strong business and personal ethics can be a road to success - and it's a road far more comfortably traveled (you don't have to keep looking over your shoulder, or trying to remember your latest "story"). So - bottom line - as a business owner, I think Shel is at the forefront of a movement that needs to catch on - I endorse what he's doing, and encourage others to check him out.
Shel's business ethics model fits with the positive mission of the publishing company I founded, as well as my clinical & consulting psychology practice. There's a saying that the only way to change the world is one person at a time. If more business leaders keep their eyes--and minds and hearts and souls--focused on such a positive trajectory, it WILL change the world.
I'm an early supporter of Shel's campaign. Throughout 40 years in business, I have practiced the moral dimension of his Pledge. Interestingly, I believe that dealing ethically with customers and suppliers leads to increased sales and profits. It's not only good, it's good business!
Refreshing in an age that "business ethics" is an oxymoron! Mordechai (Morty) Schiller www.mortyschiller.com
Great idea! Ethical businesses are the core of American values -- great job, Shel.
I felt inspired by the article, and heartened that there is a Shel Horowitz who cares about fairness and honesty in life, particularly in business which is a part of so many lives, and affects us all, and that he is reaching out and bringing out his message. I'm inspired, also, to try and bring my own message forward of ethics among those in power, and ethics of power.
Shel always offers good advice. His excellent contributions to different mailing lists in the area of publishing provide insight and help to many beginners in the field.
Ethical business is what we need.
Shel is a leader in working towards a sustainable working environment and economy. Networking with others with more resources could achieve these lofty goals much quicker. I support his work and efforts.
A well-articulated and well thought positive action plan for ethical business.
Shel has been a superb contributor through his many books, articles, and e-zines, over many years, as the underlying publishing technologies have evolved.
Shel comments about resources being his biggest challenge. I think the main resource he needs is really a virtue- patience Shel, all good things take time. Keep on keeping on!!! Teri Hill- Round Rock, TX, USA
Why does this seem innovative? Yet the mere fact that it does indicates the depth of our - the countries, industries, the economies - need for such things.
Shel is one of the most ethical beings on the planet. His book is excellent. His pledge strives for ethical behavior among all business people. He is doing a world of good and should be recognized for this.
I have been an active supporter of Shel's Principled Profits for several years. We need to get this pledge to many more business leaders - and have "No More Enrons".
I have found Shel's work to be both educational and innovative. His efforts in educating the small businessman has been an invaluable resource to thousands. He and his work are a welcome gift to every entrepreneur with a vision to succeed.
Bravo, Shel, for making public what many of us are feeling and doing individually and yet privately! What a refreshing "read" instead of what's going wrong every day. I love it when ethical behavior is NOT rocket science. Here's to the power of the collective!
Hats off to Shel and his ethical business ways. People like him certainly do make the business world a better place.
I've found Shel to be very CONTRIBUTION minded. His information is always useful and well stated.
Shel is doing what few sadly have done. I can only hope this campaign succeeds. The world could use a healthy dose of ethical behavior.
Yes, yes, yes. Let's all support Shel in his work.
Shel is an ethical man running an ethical business that makes a difference in the lives of others. He is truly a leader of the best kind and I admire and respect him.
Great proposal
Shel is doing what needs to be done pointing out that busines ethics have reached a low point in business and we better do something about it. In the long run it becomes a disaster for the businesses involved, the U.S. and the World economy.
Well done...We need this kind of commitment that should be common sense but is not anymore.
It will be fun to pay attention to where the 'Pledge' shows up throughout our daily travels.
Shel is a leader that I admire and I am glad to support him in his work.
We can never have too many ethical role models!
Shel Horowitz is an inspiration as he integrates heart and soul in his approach to business. He truly is a creator of community.
One of the Best!!!
The world needs to see social proof that only by dealing with each other ethically can we move beyond where we are today so that we can all live better. Bringing people together with this common cause is the only way to achieve that. Subscribe to Positive Power of Principled Profit Search Principled Profit
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