This Code of Conduct outlines the expected behavior and responsibilities of all volunteers serving on Santa Maria Valley Chamber committees. Our committees are designed to promote a culture of mutual respect, professionalism, and collaboration to advance the Chamber’s mission of enhancing the Santa Maria Valley community.
General Principles
- Professionalism
- Conduct yourself with integrity, transparency, and respect at all times.
- Be punctual and prepared for meetings and events.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding Committee discussions and sensitive information.
- Commitment
- Actively participate in meetings, discussions, and Chamber activities.
- Regularly attend meetings and notify the committee chair of any absences in advance
- Collaboration
- Engage in respectful and productive dialogue with fellow committee members.
- Foster a positive environment by listening to diverse perspectives and avoiding disruptive behavior.
- Support consensus-building and avoid personal agendas that conflict with the committee’s goals.
- Respectful Communication
- Communicate respectfully with all committee members, Chamber staff, and the community.
- Avoid using inappropriate language, tone, or gestures during meetings or when representing the Chamber.
- Disagreements should be approached constructively, with an emphasis on resolving issues through discussion.
- Confidentiality
- Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information shared during committee work.
- Refrain from sharing or distributing information discussed in closed sessions without authorization.
- Conflict of Interest
- Disclose any personal or professional conflicts of interest that could influence decision-making.
- Recuse yourself from discussions or votes where a conflict may arise.
- Representation
- Understand that your actions reflect on the Chamber. As such, conduct yourself in a manner that upholds the Chamber’s reputation and values.
- Do not make unauthorized public statements or commitments on behalf of the Chamber without prior approval from Chamber leadership.
- Compliance
- Ensure that committee actions are in alignment with the Chamber’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.
Enforcement
Committee members who violate this Code of Conduct may be subject to a verbal or written warning, or removal from a committee by recommendation of the committee chair and approval from Chamber leadership.