Ethical Behavior: It starts with you

During the past, we have been revolted by the shameful unethical and criminal behavior exhibited by the leaders of Enron, WorldCom and many others who have made a mockery of honor and decency in the corporate world. We may have been repulsed by the combination of boards of directors and senior managers who participated in these egregious activities, or at best, looked the other way.

Yet, as leaders it is crucial that we recognize the responsibility we have to set and follow ethical standards of behavior that become the norms for our teams to emulate. It?s not enough to judge the behavior of our superiors and colleagues as being contrary to the values and mores that we, and they, know to be right. Rather, it is imperative that our commitment to business, professional and personal ethics be practiced consistently, without exception. Even if everyone takes home company paper clips or uses the long distance service for personal calls, these activities are at least unethical, if not illegal.

Consider three steps: First, clarify your own values and determine the extent to which you practice them routinely. Next, discuss with your group your expectations for their performance as measured against the established standards. Finally, when you or one of them digresses, address the issue immediately to ensure that the standards are maintained.

What we seek to change in another, we must first change in ourselves. With this understanding we will strengthen the trust that helps to make us effective leaders and genuine examples to all.