Compliance guide

Code of Conduct Examples

Seeing real code of conduct examples is the fastest way to write your own. This guide breaks down what a strong code looks like, shows sample wording for each section, flags what to avoid, and gives you an editable sample pack. Ready to build from a blank template instead? Use our code of conduct template.

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Last updated 14 June 2026

Key takeaways

The best codes of conduct are short, specific and written in plain language, not legal boilerplate.
Strong examples lead with values, then give concrete "do this, not that" behaviours.
Big-company codes are useful inspiration, but copy the structure, not the scale, yours should fit your business.
Use the sample wording below as a starting point, then make it yours.

What a good code of conduct example looks like

Whether you're looking at a company code of conduct or a simple workplace one, the strongest examples share a few traits:

Plain language, written for everyone, not lawyers.
Values up front, the principles that explain the rules.
Concrete behaviours, real, specific examples rather than vague statements.
Clear reporting, an obvious, safe way to raise concerns.
Short enough to read, often a handful of pages, not dozens.

Famous corporate codes (the ones often cited as the "best" examples) work because of their clarity and tone, not their length. Borrow the approach, not the page count.

Sample code of conduct clauses, section by section

Here's sample wording you can adapt for the core sections of a workplace code of conduct:

Respect in the workplace

"We treat colleagues, customers and partners with respect and courtesy. Harassment, bullying and discrimination of any kind are not tolerated."

Conflicts of interest

"If a personal interest could influence, or appear to influence, your work, declare it to your manager so it can be managed."

Gifts and hospitality

"You may accept modest, occasional gifts of nominal value. Anything beyond that, or anything that could look like influence, must be declined or declared."

Use of company resources

"Use company equipment, systems and time primarily for work. Limited reasonable personal use is fine; illegal or inappropriate use is not."

Raising concerns

"If you see behaviour that breaches this code, raise it with your manager or through our confidential reporting channel. We don't tolerate retaliation against anyone who speaks up."

Strong vs weak code of conduct wording

The difference between a code people follow and one they ignore is usually specificity:

Section	Weak (vague)	Strong (specific)
Respect	"Be professional."	"No harassment, bullying or discrimination, here's how to report it."
Gifts	"Reasonable gifts are fine."	"Gifts over $X must be declined or declared."
Resources	"Use resources appropriately."	"Limited personal use is fine; no illegal or inappropriate use."
Concerns	"Report issues."	"Tell your manager or use the confidential channel; no retaliation."

Get the editable code of conduct sample pack

Drop your email below and we'll send an editable code of conduct sample (Word and PDF) with the clauses above, ready to adapt.

Frequently asked questions

Are these code of conduct examples free?+

Yes. The sample wording and the strong-vs-weak comparison are free to use and adapt. A tailored, done-for-you code is the only paid option.

Can I just copy a big company's code of conduct?+

Use it for inspiration, not as a copy. Large-company codes are written for large, complex organisations. Borrow the structure and tone, then write something that fits your business and that your team will actually follow.

What should a simple code of conduct include?+

For most small businesses: your values, expected behaviour, anti-harassment, conflicts of interest, gifts, use of resources, confidentiality, how to raise concerns, and an acknowledgement. Our template lays this out in full.

Do you have a blank template too?+

Yes, if you'd rather start from a structured outline than from examples, see our code of conduct template.

Prefer your code of conduct done for you?

Tell us about your business and we'll prepare a tailored code of conduct, built from proven examples and ready to issue with an acknowledgement form.

Requests for the code of conduct are reviewed and prepared manually, we'll follow up by email.