Character / Ethics

Building Connections:Community Leadership Program

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

Write down one example of a leader’s

unethical behavior you have observed.

What is Character?

• The inherent complex of attributes that determine a person’s moral and ethical actions and reactions

WRITE IT DOWN!!!

What are Characteristics of Character?

WRITE IT DOWN!!!

Honest

Competent

Inspiring

Courageous

Tactful

Fair

Loyal

Confident

Unselfish

Responsible

Citizenship

Caring

Respectful

Trustworthy

Why is Character Important?

• Warren Bennis says, “. . . 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

Josephson Institute of Ethics

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

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 or hurt anyone • Deal peacefully with anger, insults and

disagreements

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

Fairness

• Play by the rules • Take turns and share • Be open-minded; listen to others • Don’t take advantage of others • Don’t blame others carelessly

Caring

• Be kind • Be compassionate and show

you care • Express gratitude • Forgive others • Help people in need

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

The Four-Way Test

1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build good will?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

CAN YOU ANSWER YES?

Then, it is probably ethical.

Conclusion

• In the end, all you have is who you are.

• As a leader, you must set the right example.

• People will follow your lead. Make sure you are doing the right thing.