By Michael Gidlewski

One of the most important parts of the journey toward personal leadership mastery is defining your personal values and then aligning your behavior with those values. Alexander Hamilton once said, “Those who stand for nothing fall for everything,” and all leaders are tempted to abuse power. In fact, the more power a leader has, the more likely he/she is to become involved in corruption.

If we do not have a clear idea of our purpose and a moral code by which to live, we can easily give into self-seeking desires and immoral influences. Naturally, employees follow the leader and more than doing what the leader says, they watch what he/she does, and they follow that example. Thus, the success of your organization depends on your personal and professional behavior.

Leaders who are authentic and transparent build trust with their employees, associates, and customers. When people trust you, they are more likely to support you and help you move forward toward your goals. If you are an honest leader, your employees are more likely to be honest. If your employees are honest, your customers are more likely to refer you. If you are empathetic toward the needs of others and help others to achieve their goals, they will do the same for you.

There are many who subscribe to the belief that “the nice guys finish last,” but the truth is there are far more examples of how greed and corruption destroy businesses, organizations, families, and individuals than stories about moral action being the source of ruin.

The question is how can leaders stand up for their personal values and behave morally in all situations? How can one protect him/herself from the temptation to abuse power or act solely on self-interest? How can the leader know what is right for all, all of the time?

The Lonergan/Baird method of ethical decision-making has four steps to help leaders make moral choices. The first is to be attentive by gathering all the facts of the situation. The second is to be intelligent and try to understand the facts and what they mean. Then, identify different options to address the situation. The third is to be reasonable – evaluate the options and see how they align with your values and the values of your organization. The final step is to be responsible and act with courage.

Even when a leader employs these steps, no one is perfect. When we cause harm to another person or group, it is important to admit our wrongs and find out from those we hurt how we can make it right. When we follow a process for decision-making, however, we are more likely to make the right decision the first time.

Becoming an ethical leader, like personal leadership mastery, is a lifelong process. As mentioned previously, it begins with clearly defined values and reflection. If you are open-minded and willing to learn about yourself and others, you will be better equipped to keep up with the ever-changing needs of your employees and customers. Participating in leadership development programs and building relationships with coaches, mentors, and advisors will hold you accountable for your behaviors and catalyze personal growth. Ask for feedback, listen to what people are saying, and change your behavior when necessary.

Remember: The success of your organization depends on you.

If you are a business owner, COO, or CEO, we are offering a free personality assessment that combines three reports into one. It provides valuable insight into behaviors, motivators, and emotional intelligence. This is an excellent tool to ensure proper job match/job fit when hiring and also for employee coaching and development. Click here to request your FREE assessment TODAY! We have extended the offer until Sept. 30. Do not miss this opportunity!

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Michael Gidlewski is President of West Chester-based Achievement Unlimited, Inc., as well as a growth catalyst and motivational speaker. He works with motivated business owners and entrepreneurs to clearly define the elements of what they dearly want their businesses and lives to look like, then helps them connect all the moving parts that make up those visions to consistent action and habits. Michael can be reached at 610-793-6609 or via e-mail at michael@achievable.com.

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