When was the last time you were tempted to compromise your integrity? If you are human, it had to be recent because we are all subjected daily to alter who we are in response to the pressure to “get ahead.” It’s hard enough dealing with the personal temptations to compromise, but what do you do when your customer asks you to compromise, or worse yet, your employer? I’m going to touch on some topics today that might make you uncomfortable. The purpose is to face the challenge head-on and prepare your response in these situations so your team has a leader who they know they can trust!
Think about the leaders you trust and follow. What attracts you to them? Most likely, you feel that they tell you the truth…all the time! They give you what you need and not what you want. They would never mislead you. Those are tremendous traits worthy of imitation.
A short podcast is not going to answer every question you might have on compromise. Leadership is a journey and none have done it perfectly. No matter your past weakness or failure, it’s not too late to start incorporating honesty and integrity into the foundation of your leadership style.
Remember these things the next time you are tempted to compromise:
* all of the reasons why you shouldn’t
* acknowledge the cost of refusing to compromise
* count up the benefits of maintaining your integrity
* face the challenge with honest conversation
Most importantly, you must set up a safe environment for your team to maintain their standard of integrity. By demonstrating your commitment to integrity, you give them a reason to trust you.
Now, go and lead like someone you would want to follow!
“Honesty and integrity are absolutely essential for success in life – all areas of life. The really good news is that anyone can develop both honesty and integrity.” – Zig Ziglar
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