Having integrity in business is essential.
Integrity is, I firmly believe, something you shouldn’t compromise on even if doing the right thing feels like it’s the hardest option. We all have to responsible and accountable for our actions.
Integrity, and integrity in business, isn’t always about reputation. It is also about having self-respect.
If you have integrity it means you are valued and respected by those around you. To me my most valuable asset in my businesses is the people within them, so I ask them not to compromise themselves.
So, how can you show you have integrity in business and beyond?
- Be transparent, honest and abide by the charter of any professional body you are associated to or by the policies of the business you represent. Don’t be ashamed to admit you have made an error as a good leader will support anyone in this space and work together to fix it
- Be supportive, respectful and understanding when it comes to those you work with and those you don’t
- Keep your promises and communicate if you can’t
- Take responsibility for your actions and be accountable. Without doubt don’t blame others!
What is not acceptable and impacts on your integrity
- Not raising or reporting concerns, suspicions or wrongdoings regardless of who it impacts on. Do the right thing!
- Honesty is imperative so don’t lie to you boss, colleagues or clients
- Blaming others. Be accountable
- Overcharging or misleading clients. Be truthful about services
- Showing a lack of respect for your colleagues around you and the business you represent
You can have all the intelligence and energy in the world to allow you to do a good job, but without integrity it means nothing.
To quote CS Lewis: “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
Wise words.
