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Character / Ethics Building Connections: Community Leadership Program Improving Lives. Improving Texas. • Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing. Abraham Lincoln Click to add title Write down one example of a leader’s unethical behavior you have observed. What is Character? WRITE IT DOWN!!! • The inherent complex of attributes that determine a persons moral and ethical actions and reactions. What are Characteristics of Character? WRITE IT DOWN!!! Respect Honesty Inspiring Caring Fairness Responsibility Confident Integrity Courageous Unselfish Tact Citizenship Competent Trustworthiness Why is Character Important? • Warren Bennis says, “that after vision and passion, INTEGRITY (character) is the most basic fundamental competency to be a leader.” • He further points out that Integrity is the basis of TRUST. Who Cares About Character? • The Age of Accountability • The Importance of Family Values PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS WATCHING!!! Six Pillars of Character • • • • • • Trustworthiness Respect Responsibility Fairness Caring Citizenship Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. Trustworthiness • Be honest • Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do • Have the courage to do the right thing • Build a good reputation • Be loyal Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. Respect • Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule • Be tolerant of differences • Use good manners, not bad language • Be considerate of the feelings of others • Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. Responsibility • Do what you are supposed to do • Always do your best • Use self-control • Be self-disciplined • Think before you act • Be accountable for your choices Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. Caring • Be kind • Be compassionate and show you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. Citizenship • Do your share to make your community better • Cooperate • Get involved in community affairs • Stay informed • Be a good neighbor • Obey laws and rules • Respect authority Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson. The Four Way Test 1. 2. 3. 4. Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build good will? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? CAN YOU ANSWER YES? Then, it is probably ethical. Lussier, R. N. and Achua, C. F. (2001). Conclusion • In the end, all you have is who you are. • Remember as a leader, you have to set the right example. • People will follow your lead. Make sure you are doing the “Right Thing.”