The Ethical Compass: Leading with Integrity in Every Role

Subscribe me to the NEWSLETTER

Leadership isn't just about achieving results; it's about how those results are achieved.

As leaders and managers, we set the tone for our teams and organizations. Our ethical standards aren't just a matter of personal integrity; they're the foundation upon which we build sustainable success.

The Conditions for Success

What conditions do we need to create for long-term, sustainable results? It's about fostering an environment where teams are resilient, flexible, motivated, and creative. But what underpins all of this? High ethical standards.

Operating with high ethical standards gives us credibility in the marketplace, attracting the right customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. It also attracts the kind of employees we want: those who are committed, engaged, and bring their best selves to work.

A Personal Experience

I once joined a company with the mission to modernize its operations and elevate it to the next level. However, it quickly became clear that the CEO ran the company on fear and manipulation. Employees worked in difficult conditions, customer standards were overlooked, and employee opinions were disregarded.

I tried to change the dynamics by giving everyone a voice, setting clear expectations, and understanding their needs. I made proposals to the CEO, some requiring investments, others simply a change in mindset. The problem wasn't the money, but the CEO's belief that improvements could be made without changing the culture and ethical standards.

This was a line I couldn't cross. My personal standards were too different. After many attempts to shift the culture, I decided to leave. The company, even after more than a decade, still struggles to expand, lacking the trust needed to attract new customers and partners.

Setting Your Ethical Standards

As a leader, you set the standards for your team and organization. It's not enough to expect others to operate with higher ethics than you do. You must define, communicate, and embody those standards daily.

Here are a few practical steps to raise your ethical standards:

• Develop Trust: Be transparent and reliable. Trust is the cornerstone of any ethical environment.

• Focus on Your Team: Prioritize the interests of your team members over your own. Support their growth and development.

• Agree on a Code of Conduct: Create a shared understanding of what ethical behavior looks like in your organization. This should raise morale, respect, and engagement.

  
  

A Challenge to You

I challenge you to define the ethical standards you want your organization to operate by. Communicate these standards clearly and consistently. Most importantly, lead by example, day in and day out.

Are the ethical standards you're setting today the ones you envision for the future? Are they the ones you feel comfortable following yourself? If you expect your organization to reach a higher level, you must start elevating your standards today.

Reflect on this: What you put in, you will get out, based on your own ethical standards. Are you ready to raise the bar?

Subscribe me to the NEWSLETTER