Misplaced Confidence in Ethics & Compliance Training Program Effectiveness? Survey Shows Startling Disconnect

When respondents to the NAVEX Global 2014 Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Survey were asked whether each employee in their organization received the ethics and compliance training they need, 75 percent either “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that their employees were covered. 

However, additional data collected in our survey suggests a startling disconnect between an overall positive perception of training program effectiveness, and concerns about training adequacy for specific audiences—namely supervisors.

In fact, respondents said that, despite the training programs they have in place, they have either “major” or “significant” concerns that their supervisors are at risk of:

1. Not receiving adequate training to avoid missteps,
2. Mishandling or downplaying complaints or reports from employees, and
3. Demonstrating attitudes or conduct not reflective of a commitment to ethics and compliance.

If we believe that “tone in the middle” is crucial for building a strong corporate culture (which we do), why are compliance professionals not more confident that their managers are prepared for the risks they will inevitably face?  

Supervisors and Managers are Essential Contributors to a Strong Corporate Culture

In today’s highly complex and heavily regulated business environment, arming supervisors and managers—who are the daily interface with the employees who form the foundation of an organization—with the tools and skills they need to navigate the ethics and compliance challenges they will inevitably face is critical.  

(Browse past issues of Compliance Communicator, NAVEX Global’s newsletter for empowering and educating managers and supervisors.)

Compliance professionals who are concerned about the risks their supervisors are facing must identify top risks and training gaps and focus on addressing them. By evaluating the content of their training, ensuring that the messaging is appropriate, and making choices that maximize budget and protect precious seat time, organizations can more effectively reach all employees without negatively impacting budgets or available training time.

Make sure that you are confident that your training program—and your overall ethics and compliance program approach—is equipping every employee, including supervisors and managers, with the tools they need to help you grow a strong culture of ethics and respect. 

To learn more about training program gaps and hear our analysis and recommendations, download our 2014 Ethics & Compliance Training Benchmark Report and view our related webinar.