Four Ways to Demonstrate and Maintain Integrity in business
I had the opportunity to interview my friend Jim Franklin, CEO of HARBRO, for The Wow Factor podcast. During our conversation, Jim emphasized the concept of integrity and how he approaches decision making at work. HARBRO Emergency Services & Restoration states that their “mission is to provide victims of disaster with immediate restoration services with the utmost integrity, quality, and customer service.” In an industry where integrity is not always a priority, HARBRO is a bright light.
Maintaining integrity at work is not just for those who are dealing with tragedy; it’s a concept worth practicing in every workplace. So what is integrity? It’s doing the right thing even when you know that no one will be aware of what you did. I like how MH Mckee puts it -
“Wisdom is knowing the right path to take … Integrity is taking it”.
Here are four ways to demonstrate and maintain integrity in the workplace:
Lead by example
You don’t have to be the CEO or the business owner to lead by example. However, those in leadership positions should exemplify what it means to act with integrity. Your employees or your team observe how you act, and whether you realize it or not, they may mimic your behavior. By treating others with respect and showing positive behavior, you are setting the bar for how your team should be treating others.
Enforce and follow company policies
Company policies are developed for a reason. These policies are guidelines from codes of conduct to the dress code, they also set the standard for professionalism and, hopefully, maintain efficiency in the workplace. Having a written document for employees to reference is helpful when they have questions about policies and procedures. Some of us are not inclined to live by policies, but ask yourself this, how do you want your team to handle themselves when situations arise?
Listen to others
There are going to be instances at work when you don’t agree with someone. The key here is to keep an open mind and listen to what that person has to say. Take time to consider their ideas or point of view because they might have a fresh solution to the problem.
Maintain accountability
We are inevitably going to make mistakes, and the most challenging part of this is owning up to it. By taking responsibility, we are demonstrating honesty and opening up the environment for feedback. Maintaining accountability goes beyond admitting to wrongdoing, but it should also include being able to explain to our team what went wrong and how the situation can be improved or avoided in the future. Turn a mistake into a learning opportunity, not just for yourself but for your team as well.
The interview with Jim Franklin, CEO of HARBRO on The Wow Factor, is now live on Google Play or Apple Podcasts.