The Tribune

Workplace confidentiality is important as it helps manage disputes, ensures the security of delicate information, promotes loyalty, protects clients and prevents crime and discrimination. Confidentiality is often assured under a company’s policies, and therefore anyone who breaches the agreement is liable to face legal action.

In order for a company to inspire confidence among both its employees and clients, it must have a way of protecting everyone’s privacy. This goal is normally aided by including a confidentiality agreement in the firm’s policies. One of the reasons why this is important is that some clients or employees may disclose information that may be incriminating, or causes people to view them in a discriminatory manner.

Another reason why confidentiality is important in the workplace is that it helps keep employees united by protecting delicate information. If all employees knew every single detail about their colleagues, it would be difficult for them to work as a team. This is especially true in workplaces where employees may have varied beliefs, opinions, sexuality or cultural inclinations.

Confidentiality also prevents criminal activity by guarding information that, in the wrong hands, enables malicious persons to take advantage of an individual or situation. Likewise, data that reveals an individual’s personal information, such as finances, can easily be used for fraudulent activities, which is why keeping it confidential is important.

A confidentiality agreement is a legal agreement that prohibits employees from disclosing certain information about a company and its clients. It is a permanent agreement, which means a signed confidentiality agreement remains valid after employment has ended. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

• NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

About the columnist: Deidre M. Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer/brand marketing analyst, international award-winning author and certified life coach.