Character Ethics

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Character / Ethics

• Building Connections Community Leadership Program

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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

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Write down one example of a leaders unethical
behavior you have observed.
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What is Character?
WRITE IT DOWN!!!

• The inherent complex of attributes that determine
  a persons moral and ethical actions and
  reactions.

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What are Characteristics of Character?
WRITE IT DOWN!!!
Respect
Trustworthiness
Honesty
Fairness
Inspiring
Caring
Responsibility
Confident
Integrity
Courageous
Unselfish
Loyal
Citizenship
Competent
Tact
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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.

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Who Cares About Character?

• The Age of Accountability
• The Importance of Family Values

PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS WATCHING!!!
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Six Pillars of Character

• Trustworthiness
• Respect
• Responsibility
• Fairness
• Caring
• Citizenship

Reference Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996).
Michael S. Josephson.
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Trustworthiness

• Be honest
• Be reliable do what you say youll do
• Have the courage to do the right thing
• Build a good reputation
• Be loyal

Reference Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996).
Michael S. Josephson.
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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
• Dont threaten, hit or hurt anyone
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and
  disagreements

Reference Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996).
Michael S. Josephson.
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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.
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Fairness

• Play by the rules
• Take turns and share
• Be open-minded listen to others
• Dont take advantage of others
• Dont blame others carelessly

Reference Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996).
Michael S. Josephson.
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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.
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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.
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The Four Way Test

• 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).
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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.