Have you ever felt stuck between doing what’s right and doing what’s easy?
I sure have.
As a leader, I’ve faced tough choices that tested my integrity. But here’s the thing: leading with integrity isn’t just about following rules.
It’s about staying true to yourself and your team.
In my years of leading teams, I’ve learned that ethical leadership isn’t always simple. But it’s always worth it. It builds trust, respect, and a team that stands behind you.
And that’s something we all want as leaders!
Today, I’m sharing 10 tips that have helped me lead with integrity. These aren’t just ideas from a book. They’re real-life lessons I’ve learned the hard way. Whether you’re a new supervisor or a seasoned leader, these tips will help you do your job ethically and effectively.
Let’s get right into it.
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What Does Leading with Integrity Truly Mean?
To me, leading with integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching.
It’s about being honest, fair, and consistent in your actions and decisions. I once thought integrity was just about following rules. But I quickly learned it’s so much more.
It’s about staying true to your values and being transparent with your team.
Leading with integrity means:
- Being honest, even when it’s hard
- Treating everyone fairly
- Taking responsibility for your actions
- Making decisions based on what’s right, not what’s easy
- Admitting when you’re wrong
I’ve had many times where I’ve had to make a tough call that would upset some team members. It’s tempting to sugarcoat the situation. But being upfront is the only way to maintain trust. So, I tell them the truth and face the music.
It’s not always easy, but it’s what’s right.
The Benefits of Leading with Integrity
Now, let’s talk about why leading with integrity matters. I’ve seen firsthand how it can transform a workplace.
For workers:
Integrity creates trust. When employees know their leader is honest, they feel secure. They’re more likely to speak up, share ideas, and take risks. I’ve watched shy team members blossom into confident contributors in this kind of environment.
For organizations:
Integrity builds a strong reputation. It attracts top talent and loyal customers. I’ve spent over half my life with an organization known for its ethical practices. We consistently outperformed our competitors because people wanted to work with us and be a part of our organization.
For the workplace:
Integrity sets the tone for the whole work environment. It cultivates a positive culture where people feel valued and respected. In my experience, this leads to higher productivity, better teamwork, and less turnover.
Remember, integrity isn’t just about you. It’s about creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. When you lead with integrity, you’re not just doing your job, you’re making a real difference in people’s lives.
Tips for Leading with Integrity
Now you know what it means to lead with integrity. Let’s discuss how we can actually make that happen:
1. Know Your Values
I learned early in my career that knowing your values is like having a compass. It guides you when things get tough. It guides your decision-making.
Take some time to think about what really matters to you. Is it honesty? Fairness? Kindness?
Write them down.
I keep my values list on my desk. When I’m faced with a tricky decision, I look at it. It helps me stay true to myself.
Remember, your values are unique to you. They’re your personal roadmap for integrity.
Use them often.
2. Be Consistent
Being consistent is one of those things that sounds easy but can be very hard. Trust me, I’ve struggled with this one.
It means doing the right thing every time, not just when it’s easy. Your team, your bosses, and everyone else in your life are always watching.
They notice when you bend the rules.
I once made an exception to a policy for a friend. It backfired. My team lost trust in me. I learned that consistency is key to respect.
Try to treat everyone the same way.
Make decisions based on facts, not feelings. It’s not always fun, but it’s always right.
3. Hold Yourself to a High Moral Standard
This one’s all about raising the bar for yourself. Don’t just meet expectations, exceed them.
I always ask myself, “Would I be proud if everyone knew about this decision?” If the answer is no, I rethink it. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about always trying to do better.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes, but I keep aiming high.
Set your own high standards. Then work hard to live up to them every day.
4. Own Up To Your Mistakes
Be accountable. We all mess up sometimes. What matters is how we handle it.
I’ve made plenty of bad calls in my life. It’s tempting to blame others. Instead, I admit my mistakes. Owning up shows strength, not weakness.
When you make a mistake, say sorry. Fix what you can. Learn from it. Then move on.
5. Maintain Honesty and Transparency with Your Colleagues
Honesty and transparency builds trust. And trust is the foundation of good leadership.
I make it a point to share information openly with my team. Even when the news isn’t great. Be open about challenges. Share successes. Answer questions truthfully.
Your team will thank you for it.
6. Lead by Example and Your Team Will Follow
I’ve learned that actions speak louder than words. As a leader, your team is always watching you.
If you want your team to be on time, be on time yourself. If you want them to work hard, roll up your sleeves and work alongside them. I once had a boss who always left early. Guess what? The whole team started leaving early too.
Don’t be that boss.
Remember, you set the standard. Make it a high one. Your team will rise to meet it.
7. Follow Through on Your Commitments
Nothing kills trust faster than broken promises. I learned this the hard way.
Early in my career, I used to over-promise and under-deliver. Trust me, your team will lose faith in you. It takes a long time to rebuild that trust.
Now, I’m careful about what I commit to. When I say I’ll do something, I do it.
No excuses.
Keep a list of your commitments. Check it often. Make following through a priority.
Your team will thank you for it.
8. Say No When It Doesn’t Fit
Saying yes to everything isn’t leadership. It’s people-pleasing. And it doesn’t work.
I used to say yes to every request. I ended up stressed and overwhelmed. My work suffered.
So did my team.
Now, I’m not afraid to say no when something doesn’t fit our goals or values. It’s not always easy, but it’s always right. Be polite but firm. Explain your reasons. Offer alternatives if you can.
Remember, saying no to the wrong things lets you say yes to the right ones.
9. Learn to Accept Feedback
Feedback is a gift. Even when it stings. I’ve had to learn this lesson over and over.
The first time a team member criticized my leadership, I got defensive. But later, I realized they were right. Their feedback made me a better leader.
Now, I ask for feedback regularly.
I listen without interrupting. I thank people for their honesty.
Try to see criticism as a chance to grow. Don’t argue. Don’t make excuses. Just listen, thank them, and think about how you can improve.
10. Embrace Self-Reflection
The best leaders I know take time to think about their actions and decisions. I try to do the same.
Every Friday, I spend 30 minutes reviewing my week. What went well? What could I have done better? How did I live up to my values? This habit has helped me grow more than any leadership book or seminar.
It’s not always comfortable, but it’s always valuable.
Set aside time for self-reflection. Be honest with yourself. Learn from your mistakes. Celebrate your wins.
Keep growing, keep improving.
Conclusion
Leading with integrity isn’t always easy, but it’s always right.
I’ve seen firsthand how these tips can transform a team and a leader. They’ve helped me become a better version of myself, both at work and in life. Remember, you have the power to make a difference. Your actions speak louder than words.
When you lead with integrity, you inspire others to do the same.
So, take these tips and make them your own. Find what works for you and your team. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
They’re how we learn and grow.
Start today. Pick one tip and put it into action. You’ll be amazed at how small changes can lead to big results.
