Employees respond best to leaders who exemplify integrity—in other words, those who exude truthfulness, reliability, and trustworthiness. These leaders “walk the talk” and take responsibility for their mistakes. They also communicate respectfully with everyone in their ecosystem, knowing that every action they take reflects back on their reputation and the reputation of their company.

As you reflect on how you relate to the characteristic of integrity, you’ll answer the following questions:

• Do I hold myself accountable for my actions?
• Do I act as a role model for my employees?
• Can employees trust me to practice what I preach?

In our work in this sub-element, we’ll ensure that your behaviour in the workplace is cultivating an atmosphere of honesty, respect, and diligence. By holding yourself to a high standard, you’ll earn the loyalty of your employees and also see your behaviour and expectations reflected in those around you.