3 advantages of internal whistleblowing

Does it make sense for organisations to implement an internal whistleblowing system now or should they wait until it’s a legal requirement in their country? What happens if an employer doesn’t encourage people to come forward, or have appropriate tools to make internal reporting possible? The consequences could be unrepairable. Read more about the advantages of internal whistleblowing below!

Here are just three advantages of encouraging internal whistleblowing now, rather than waiting until it becomes law.

• Internal whistleblowing helps avoid the public eye
• It builds trust and transparency in your organisation
• Strengthens your organisation as an open and ethical business

1. Internal whistleblowing helps avoid the public eye

An obvious reason why it’s better to handle whistleblowing internally is to safeguard the organisation’s reputation. When the information breaches the organisation’s walls and reaches the public, it can have very damaging consequences. It’s important that the organisation becomes aware of violations, and has the opportunity to tackle and resolve them, before they are disclosed to the media or other external bodies.

How can organisation’s do this? By setting up a user-friendly and secure system that encourages individuals to report unethical behaviour in the workplace.

2. Building trust and transparency in your organisation

Along with having access to a reporting system, it is essential that whistleblowers know they will be protected. If an employee is concerned that there will be negative consequences if they speak to a manager or HR, they may see no other option but to go public. Unfortunately, in some countries, whistleblowing can lead to dismissal, demotion or unfair treatment. The EU Whistleblowing Directive on the protection of whistleblowers aims to stop any retaliation towards someone who discloses misconduct in the workplace. An effective and confidential reporting system builds a culture of trust, where people feel protected to speak-up, and more loyal to the organisation.

3. Strengthens your organisation as an open and ethical business

The advantages of internal whistleblowing don’t stop at protecting the organisation from public scrutiny. A workplace culture in which disclosures happens is actually an indication of a strong company. In fact, the lack of reporting can be just as detrimental as disclosures to the media. If you don’t know that an issue exists, how can you resolve it? A company in which people are encouraged to voice their concerns safely is better equipped to resolve issues from the get-go.

It’s also a strong indicator to other external stakeholders, such as investors, customers and future employees that you run an open and ethical business. And therefore, one they can trust.

Want to know more? Visit our page about the EU Whistleblowing Directive or read about national whistleblower laws in the European Union to learn more.  

Would you like to discuss a safe and secure whistleblowing solution for your organisation? Please book a free demo!