Digital Library: Integrity

Integrity

Integrity can be defined as “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles”. Integrity is “the act of behaving honorably, even when no one is watching”.

There are some character traits related to integrity, namely gracious, respectful, honest, trustworthy, hardworking, responsible, helpful, patient. Integrity is more a quality than a skill, but it can still be developed over time.

In addition, integrity is doing the right thing, through words, actions and beliefs.

Having a high level of integrity at work means that the person is:

• trustworthy and reliable,
• practices and encourages honest communication,
• is responsible for their actions.

People who are trustworthy and conscientious are reliable.

Daniel Goleman, the author of several books on emotional intelligence, identified certain behaviors related to trustworthiness and conscientiousness that were consistent in those with good emotion intelligence:

• Trustworthy people act with integrity;
• Integrity gives them credibility with those around them;
• When they say their word is their bond, you know you can rely on that;
• Their values are consistent with their actions;
• They are also prepared to confront those who act unethically and take a stand against unethical behavior, even if that is unpopular.

Integrity is crucial for credibility.

In some jobs and areas of life, there is ambiguity about what is right and wrong, and particularly what is expected. Nevertheless, research shows that who act in accordance with their beliefs and inner values are more likely to be respected and to be happy, than those who allow themselves to be pushed into doing something that is not consistent with their personal values

Significance in Times of Crisis (e.g. pandemic)

A strong leadership culture based on trust, honesty, empathy, and authenticity is essential in times of crisis. Business leaders must ask themselves what they can actively do to create a safe space that allows them to have open, honest, and trusting conversations, as well as recognize when they don't have the answers. Integrity means being honest and have strong moral principles. Having integrity means express gratitude when other people help us; value honesty and openness; being responsible and accountable for our actions; respect ourselves and others around us no matter where we are; being reliable and trustworthy; helping those in need without sacrificing our own health; being patient and flexible, even when unexpected obstacles show up.