According to Rotary's classification principle, members join Rotary as the representative of their particular business or profession. This gives Rotarians the dual responsibility of representing their vocation within the club and of exemplifying the ideals of Rotary within the workplace. A commitment to Vocational Service obliges Rotarians to view their respective occupations as an opportunity to serve society.
Rotary clubs also have an obligation to carry out Vocational Service projects designed to increase employment opportunities in the community, promote a fair workplace environment, and raise an awareness and appreciation of all useful occupations. In addition, the importance of upholding high ethical standards in business has always been an integral element of the Rotary creed, as spelled out in the Object of Rotary and the Declaration of Rotarians in Businesses and Professions.
Another principle governing the role of Rotarians in the workplace is
The 4-Way Test.
This yardstick for judging ethical behavior was developed in 1932 by Rotarian
Herbert J.
Taylor (RI president 1954-55).