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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin, we look at several ethical principles divided into four leadership descriptors: Be Principled & Genuine, Value Others, Seek Resuts 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: principled, prudent, contemplative and humble)
2. Trustworthiness
Be counted on to stay true to my beliefs. (Traits: genuine, reflective, self-aware and dedicated)
3. Integrity
Do what I say I will do. (Traits: reliable, consistent, predictable and orderly)
4. Honesty
Tell the truth, but with compassion for the feelings of others. (Traits: discrete, discerning and precise)
Value Others
5. Respect
Treat others as I would want to be treated. (Traits: inclusive, engaging and honoring)
6. Compassion for Others
Be kind to others, even if it's not deserved. (Traits: kind, gentle, patient, encouraging, benevolent and generous)
7. Forgiveness
Be willing to forgive others, even when undeserved, and ask humbly for others to forgive me. (Traits: patient, grateful and merciful)
8. Unity
Build relationships that foster harmony and collaboration. (Traits: reconciler, integrator and 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, optimistic, 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
Scrutinize myself and welcome the scrutiny of others. (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: thoughtful, 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 and wise choices)