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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?
WRITE IT DOWN!!!
• The inherent complex of
attributes that determine a
persons moral and ethical
actions and reactions.
What are Characteristics of Character?
WRITE IT DOWN!!!
Honesty
Trustworthiness
Caring
Integrity
Loyal
Tact
Fairness
Respect
Inspiring
Responsibility
Confident
Unselfish
Competent
Courageous
Citizenship
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.
Who Cares About Character?
• The Age of Accountability
• The Importance of Family Values
PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS WATCHING!!!
Six Pillars of Character
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Trustworthiness
Respect
Responsibility
Fairness
Caring
Citizenship
Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics
(1996). Michael S. Josephson.
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
Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics
(1996). Michael S. Josephson.
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, hit or hurt anyone
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and
disagreements
Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics
(1996). Michael S. Josephson.
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.
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
Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics
(1996). Michael S. Josephson.
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.
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.
The Four Way Test
1.
2.
3.
4.
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).
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.”