Integrity & Compliance

Integrity

Integrity

Primarily, Integrity in the workplace is so important as these traits foster a positive workplace culture. One where there is open communication, good decision making and a strong moral compass guiding all decisions and actions. Organisations known for their integrity perform better.

Importance of Integrity

The Importance of Integrity in the Workplace

The Importance of Integrity in the Workplace

Published on February 13, 2017
Author’s photo
Kathy Miles
Independent Contractor - Instructional Design/L&D

According to the Collins Dictionary online, "if you have integrity, you are honest and firm in your moral principles."

Personal integrity

Personal integrity is an inborn moral conviction to do what is right, and reject that which is wrong, regardless of the consequences that are attached to their decisions. 

Integrity comes in many forms, but the most important traits that are expected at the workplace are dependability, honesty, loyalty and good judgement. 

As an individual in the workplace, having integrity means:
  • That your actions are consistent with your words;
  • That you are trustworthy, reliable and honest;
  • That you communicate honestly and openly;
  • That you have appropriate values, and behaviours that reflect these values; and
  • That you can admit mistakes and not be afraid to show you care.

 

Forms of Integrity

According to Dan Coughlin, keynote speaker, management consultant and executive coach,

There are Three Types of Integrity:
Internal integrity

Internal integrity

This is your integrity at the deepest level. Is your integrity just for show because it looks good, or do you truly live your life with integrity in mind? Internal integrity is about being able to do the right thing, even if no one is looking and even if you will receive absolutely no credit for doing so. Doing the right thing, even though it may be the harder option, despite no one looking will really be a huge step towards ensuring that you live with integrity.
External integrity

External integrity

This is what you portray to those around you. You have high external integrity when your actions are consistent with your thoughts and what you are saying. If you are saying one thing, but your actions say something else - you have some more work to do!
Image integrity

Image integrity

Similar to external integrity - this is the image of your integrity. Whilst you might outwardly be displaying the right actions and taking the right path, can these actions be thought of in any other way? Are you leaving your image open to interpretation? People have great imaginations. When we don't understand something, we are very quick to make assumptions and form beliefs about why something is occurring. Looking after your image integrity is about ensuring that none of your actions or words can be misconstrued.

Why Integrity

Why is Integrity Important?

Why is Integrity Important?

Primarily, integrity in the workplace is so important as these traits foster a positive workplace culture. One where there is open communication, good decision making and a strong moral compass guiding all decisions and actions. Whereas, irresponsible behaviour and distrust can make a work environment uncomfortable and tense.

If you are known for your integrity, you will gain trust and respect from the people around you.

Integrity is not just important on a personal level, it is also vitally important at a workplace level. Organisations known for their integrity perform better. 

What Customer wants to deal with an organisation that doesn't keep their word, that says one thing but does something else or that offers bad products or services? They wouldn't. Instead they would want to deal with the organisation who can be trusted to follow through with what they have agreed upon, that have trustworthy employees and a good brand message.

Tips for Demonstrating Integrity

Build Trusting and Respectful Relationships
Communicate Openly and Honestly
Follow Company Policies
Demonstrate Responsible Behaviour
Work Diligently
Admit to and Learn from Your Mistakes
Lead by Example
Stand Up for Your Beliefs
Have Your Own Identity