THE FOUR-WAY TEST

Submitted by: Travis Stone (District 5580 Trainer)

Rotary 101 Training Factoid: What is The Four-Way Test? From the earliest days of Rotary, Rotarians have been concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives. One of the world’s most widely printed and quoted statements of business ethics is The Four-Way Test, which Rotarian and Chicago businessman Herbert J. Taylor created in 1932 at the height of the Great Depression when faced with the challenge of saving a major company from bankruptcy. Company personnel were asked to learn the test and to observe it as a guide to every aspect of business. As a result, a climate of trust and goodwill gradually developed among dealers, customers and employees, and the Four-Way Test was credited with returning the company to a thriving status.

Adopted by Rotary in 1943, Rotarians across the world now apply the “Four-Way Test” to their professional and personal relationships by asking themselves the following:

"Of the things we think, say or do:

1. Is it the TRUTH?

2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"

You will note that the Four-Way Test does not provide answers. It asks questions which the user must answer.

The Four-Way Test has inspired safe driving programs, fire prevention campaigns, crime and drug reduction activities. The message has appeared on roadside billboards, bronze plaques and has been translated into more than 100 languages.

The Four-Way Test has also been the subject of countless secondary school essays around the country, including throughout District 5580. Is your club working with and encouraging high school juniors and seniors in your community to participate? Visit https://rotary5580.org/sitepage/four-way-essay to learn more!