Let’s face it: compliance training on its own doesn’t build a culture of integrity.You can roll out the best online training available — but if leadership isn’t modeling ethical behavior, employees will see it for what it is: a box-ticking exercise.
In fact, without management commitment, ethics and compliance training can start to feel like whitewashing — just another “must-do” task with no real connection to how the company actually operates.
Ethics Starts at the Top
We’ve worked with hundreds of companies, and one truth is consistent:
When leaders don’t lead with integrity, the message doesn’t stick.
That’s why we recommend starting with management. Train them first. Equip them with the tools to live the Code of Conduct, not just explain it.
Because leadership behavior sets the tone for the whole organization.
Best Practice: Separate Code of Conduct Training for Managers
The most effective companies take it a step further:
They create a separate version of Code of Conduct training just for managers.
This tailored training focuses on questions like:
• What does the Code mean in day-to-day leadership decisions?
• How do managers handle ethical dilemmas or gray areas?
• How do they build trust, accountability, and speak-up culture?
• How can they ensure their teams operate according to company values?
And here’s the good news:
You don’t need expensive consultants to make this happen.
Online Training vs. Expensive Workshops
Online training built from a manager’s point of view — highlighting real-world dilemmas and everyday leadership challenges — already does an amazing job of shifting mindsets and driving change.
You save hundreds of thousands of euros compared to consultant-led training, which often involves one-off workshops. And we all know:
One workshop doesn’t change a culture.
The Right Cadence: Train Management Annually
Training isn’t just about content — it’s also about cadence.
We often recommend:
• Managers complete Code of Conduct training annually or even twice a year.
• The rest of the company can do it annually or even bi-annually, depending on the culture and risk level
This ensures that those with the most influence — managers — are continuously aligned with your company’s values and can lead by example.
Everyone Wants to Do the Right Thing — But It’s Not Always Clear
At the end of the day, most people want to do what’s right.
But in today’s complex, fast-moving world, that’s not always easy.
There’s pressure. There’s ambiguity. There are gray areas.
Our job is to help organizations cut through the noise — and give every employee, especially leaders, the clarity and confidence to act with integrity.
Want to Build a Culture That Lives Its Values?
We help companies move beyond check-the-box training.
We help them build leadership that models ethical behavior — and empowers teams to follow.
Let’s talk about how a separate, manager-focused Code of Conduct training — delivered online, affordably, and effectively — can help shape a culture of integrity that actually sticks
Ready to stop overpaying and start delivering better learning experiences?
Let’s talk. Schedule a free demo with Datafisher !
Written by: The Datafisher Ethics & Compliance Team
Experts in making change easier — and more affordable.