An Integrity Self-Test for Leaders.

AuthorMartin, Dave
PositionLEADERSHIP - Column

"The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office."

--Dwight D. Eisenhower

It is essential for every leader.

It cannot be bought.

It cannot be delegated.

It is recognized across all cultures, races and eras.

It is wholly unassociated with economic status.

It is the ultimate measure of a leader, whether in business or in the legislature.

Although many people struggle to completely define integrity, most everyone can recognize it. You know someone you trust completely. You know someone whose word is her bond. You know someone who would not compromise, who would tell the truth, who would stand by his promises, even when it hurt him. Integrity is doing the right thing. The question we all ask ourselves is, "Am I that 'someone' other people think of when asked to name a person of integrity?"

The following self-test has five questions. The answers are for you alone, and the only way for the test to work is for you to answer the questions honestly. It is not about perfection. It is not about comparison. Integrity is personal. If, as you read the questions, you begin to think that your initial personal integrity evaluation was perhaps optimistic, do not despair. Integrity is built over a lifetime of doing the right thing. Appreciate that your attention has been drawn to this area and let it make your future decisions more considered and intentional.

How would you react in the following scenarios?

[1]

You have just heard an extremely compromising--but unfounded--bit of information about the guy at your office who has the position you desire. Should he move on, there is a very strong possibility you will be promoted to his position. This move would almost double your current salary. Furthermore, you have never liked the guy. Do you casually share the gossip?

[2]

You were delayed at the capitol, then you were stuck in traffic for an extra 45 minutes, and you have a pressing dinner engagement. As you walk in the door, the phone rings and your teen says, "It's for you. It's that constituent that talks forever!" You say, "Just tell him I was delayed, and I'm not home yet." Yes or no?

[3]

You are a newly selected leader of your caucus, responsible for ensuring that members promote your caucus' positions, engage in healthy debate and support each other. In campaigning for your new position, you told some caucus...

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