Why Integrity Matters at Work
Integrity matters. It is a character trait that communicates a lot about the values we hold and how we live our lives. It matters both in our personal lives and in our professional lives. In my research, I have found that integrity is one of the most fundamental character traits that executives, team leaders, and conscientious employees embrace in the workplace. Business recruiters look for integrity when hiring new employees who will be joining their existing organizational culture because it shows such a consistent pattern of behavior. Integrity demonstrates sound moral and ethical principles which are paramount for a strong healthy work culture and inspiring employee engagement.
Why does integrity matter in the workplace? A person who has integrity lives by a set of standards and values that translate well in relationships with coworkers, customers, and managers. Above all, these individuals show respect to coworkers, participating in appropriate conversations and behaviors. These workers work when they are supposed to be working and leave the socializing and personal business aside for break times.
Integrity includes a sense of honesty, dependability, and consistency of character. This trait allows the individual to be accountable for what they say they are going to do. They adhere to company policies and procedures. They own up to their own mistakes. People who demonstrate integrity draw others to them because they are trustworthy and dependable. They are principled and can be counted on to behave in honorable ways even when no one is watching.
As a business leader, modeling what is expected from others is a source of inspiration. Showing that you can go beyond the bare minimum of what is expected communicates to others that you embrace purpose, clear goals, and a conviction to make a difference. Work can get tough at times and employees need reassurance that management not only backs their efforts but practices the same character traits. Integrity matters in very positive ways.
