Michael Benis

Ethics

Many people find ethics pious, boring and unconvincing. But to me it’s a pleasure. I enjoy doing what I believe in. It’s why I do what I do the way I do. I work closely, informally and creatively with my clients, showing real personal commitment. Which is why I have kept so many of you over so many years.

But it also means a few other quite straightforward things about the way I work, which are listed below.

I’ll always do everything I can, day or night, come hell or high water, to help you achieve the most effective results in the long and short term. That may sometimes mean respectfully disagreeing with you on the way. But it will never mean cutting corners, making excuses or spouting theory, management speak or jargon. To you or - for that matter - your customers.

And I’ll never make false promises either. We can leave that to the snake oil salesmen who claim their copywriting, AI or Search Engine Optimisation will double your sales overnight. What I will do is bring 38 years’ expertise and uncompromising dedication to working with you to help ensure your every project achieves its full potential.

Wherever possible I run a paper-free business. All paper used is made from recycled pulp using low-impact techniques, and all paper used or received is recycled. All plastics, textiles and card, as well as all printing consumables are also recycled (current supplier/provider StinkyInk).

Energy and water use is kept to a minimum, including through substantial insulation and low-energy LED lighting.

All electricity is from renewable sources (current provider Good Energy) and gas is purchased from the same ethical supplier.

Website hosting is powered 100% by renewable energy (Krystal).

Emissions are offset planting indigenous trees in the UK and using a scheme that purchases and retires EU CO2 quotas, taking them out of circulation.

Travel is kept to a minimum using videoconferencing and VOIP technologies. Any unavoidable travel prioritises the lowest-impact solution: foot, public transport, motorcycle and motor car in that order.

There’s only one exception to this policy of using minimal resources and that’s when it comes to ensuring I can provide a totally reliable service. Here I have two of everything, from computers to back-up systems, internet service providers and telephone networks. As a result we can always be sure our deadlines - and blood pressure - are comfortably under control.

Food and drink are organic, local (low food miles) or low energy and fair trade wherever possible.

I operate a clear client and supplier code covering the environment, animal and human rights, and the active promotion of creative thinking and living through business style and practice.

All banking is with ethical banks and all investments in ethical funds. 

A wide range of charities is supported every year, with regular and ad-hoc donations.

I likewise operate transparent business practices and pricing policies throughout.

Now that’s got to make you smile, hasn’t it?