The ultimate leadership responsibility is modeling the behaviors you expect from others. To a large degree, you operate in a fishbowl. Employees are constantly watching you--and learning from you.
Here are ten reasons why leaders should model ethical behavior:
1. It reduces pressure on employees to compromise ethical standards.
2. It increases employee willingness to report misconduct.
3. It improves trust and respect at all levels.
4. It protects the positive reputation of the organization.
5. It encourages early detection of problem areas and ethics violations.
6. It fosters a positive work culture and improved customer service.
7. It provides an incentive and framework for ethical decision making.
8. It increases pride, professionalism and productivity.
9. It enhances your ability to attract and retain high-quality employees.
10. It helps ensure the long-term viability of the enterprise.
The leader of an organization should move forward with a moral compass pointing the way.