What do we mean when we talk about integrity and character ethics? Here's our take on the principles that help develop leadership and character.
The goal of our Students of Integrity Scholarships program is to help Mississippi students develop leadership and character so that, one day, they'll become business leaders who pave the way for a more ethical, trusting and productive future for our state. But what do we mean exactly when we talk about integrity and character ethics?
Integrity focuses on ethical character traits, not on compliance to a set of rules.
Here at your BBB serving Mississippi, we look at several ethical principles divided into four leadership descriptors: Be Principled & Genuine, Value Others, Seek Results and Display Growth.
Be principled & genuine
1. Seeking wisdom
Seek something greater than intelligence or knowledge; seek wisdom, knowing what's right and true. (Traits: principles, prudent, contemplative, humble)
2. Trustworthiness
Be counted on to stay true to my beliefs. (Traits: genuine, reflective, self-aware, dedicated)
3. Integrity
Do what I say I will do. (Traits: reliable, consistent, predictable, orderly)
4. Honesty
Tell the truth, but with compassion for the feeling's of others. (Traits: discrete, discerning, precise)
Value others
5. Respect
Treat others as I would want to be treated (Traits: inclusive, engaging, honoring)
6. Compassion for others
Be kind to others, even if it's not deserved. (Traits: kind, gentle, patient, encouraging, benevolent, generous)
7. Forgiveness
Be willing to forgive others, even when undeserved, and ask humbly for others to forgive me. (Traits: patient, grateful, merciful)
8. Unity
Build relationships that foster harmony and collaboration. (Traits: reconciler, integrator, collaborator)
9. Learning & mentoring
Grow in wisdom and pass it on. (Traits: curious, creative, teachable, inspirational)
10. Serving & leadership
Put the success of others and the group above myself. (Traits: selfless, optimisitc, future-oriented, visionary)
11. Honoring authority
Respect legitimate boundaries for behavior. (Traits: dutiful, law-abiding, civil)
Seek results
12. Justice
Uphold truth, expose error and correct wrongs. (Traits: impartial, unbiased, diligent, decisive)
13. Courage
Consistently and persistently act on my strong convictions: (Traits: tenacious, determined, unwavering, strategic, resilient, grit)
14. Accountability
Scurtinize myself and welcome the scurtiny of othes. (Traits: open, up-front, self-disclosing, transparent)
15. Stewardship
Live as if I will eventually reap what I sow. (Traits: careful, ordered, generous, astute, watchful)
16. Seeking council
Seek advice from others who have knowledge and wisdom, particularly when confronted with ethically ambiguous issues. (Traits: thougthful, curious, discerning)
17. Responsibility
Fulfill my personal responsibilities as a good citizen. (Traits: self-governing, self-controlled, self-disciplined)
18. Excellence
To be and do my best work every day. (Traits: enthusiasm, focus, determination, consistency)
Display growth
19. Maturation
Learn from experience and seek personal improvement over time. (Traits: positive change, healthy growth, wise choices)
20. Transformation
Exhibit consistent, positive and intentional commitment to higher character. (Traits: high character, ethical, conscientious, healthy growth, wise choices)