Leadership and Ethics

Much can be said about truth. Many people make a huge fuss about ‘seeking truth’ while others profess that if they believe something to be true than it is BUT should someone else believe a differing opinion is true, then that is “their “ truth. Even the explanation of that way of thinking gives me an ice cream headache. However, Bill Clinton tried to clear up the subject when he said, and I paraphrase, It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is.

If you have ever wrestled with the concept of truth at work you are not alone. Many managers, department heads and executive leaders caucus before employee meetings to determine how best to put a “positive spin” on company announcements. No wonder the business owner who stands before his/her employees and tells them “like it is” retains a loyal following of devotees. Then, if and when things do turn sour, these employees are equipped to help build something good out of what could have been ruins.

Truth gathers a following. A by-gone can be a by-gone when the basis for the workplace is truth. It is easier to clean up a mess when it is clear what the mess really is. Truth flowing freely in the air helps most people sleep better at night.

When hiring employees for my business, the interview process always found me saying to the potential employee “It is very easy to work here. There are three key things you need to do.
1) Be here. Come to work mentally and physically everyday. The reason we are hiring for this position is that we need the help
2) Do your best each day.
3) Tell me the truth. No matter how big the mistake; no matter what the problem is you face, tell me the truth and I can deal with that much better than a lie that I am bound to find out about.“
Then I would ask “ Can you do these three things?” The confirming answer of yes was the buy in for the new hire to understand our company culture and integrate into our workplace ethics.

As company leader these three things applied to me as well. Employees look to their leadership for the key ingredients to the company culture. From dress; to manners; to over flowing with ideas…employees pick up on leadership and gravitate to that direction. Companies with huge ethical problems within their ranks need to consider their leadership style.