How to Lead With Integrity

Co-authored by Guy Reichard and Jessica Gibson

Last Updated: August 27, 2021 References

Integrity has become a buzzword, but what does it really mean? You have integrity when your actions and words are in line with your values. Simply put, you talk the talk and walk the walk! This is crucial when you're trying to lead—whether it's a team of co-workers, fellow classmates, or your children. By developing self-awareness and treating others with respect, you'll be on your way to effective leadership.

1

Develop a code of conduct and live by it.

Every directive you issue or action you take should reflect your standards. Try to do this as soon as you start leading so everyone's on the same page. For instance, if you tell them that initiative is very important to you, you might expect them to complete independent projects on a regular basis.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Guy Reichard
Life Coach
Expert Interview. 26 April 2021.}
- Remember, integrity is the alignment of your actions with your values or moral beliefs.
- Hold yourself accountable, too! For example, you might say to your team that telling the truth is important, but if they see you lie to get a promotion, they won't trust you or feel like following your rules.

2

Keep your word.

Make good on your promises so people know they can rely on you. If you offer to do something or give a reward, follow through on it. You may not mean to break your word—it can be really easy to put things off or forget. Make a point of fulfilling your promises in a timely fashion so you build trust with your team.^{[2]
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- You want your team to believe and have confidence in you. They'll be more likely to complete their jobs and come to you if they need your help or feedback.

3

Take responsibility.

Do everything that's asked of you and be responsible for your team. You're probably accountable to higher-ups so you're responsible for getting your own projects done. Finish every job you're given to the best of your ability. You'll also be held responsible for your team's work, which is why you should encourage them to do their best.^{[3]
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- Not sure what your boss would want you to do? Don't be afraid to ask so you know exactly what's required of you. If you can't ask, take the initiative to do the job as best you can.

4

Be selfless.

Put the team or other people's needs before your own. Instead of asking yourself if something will benefit you, ask yourself if someone needs the help or if you can help your group accomplish something. Being selfish won't inspire others to follow your lead, but showing consideration can encourage others to step up and help out.^{[4]
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- Think of it this way, if you've inspired people to reciprocate and help you out, then great! It's just a bonus.

5

Accept feedback.

People want to be appreciated and feel like they're contributing. Listening is a simple, but super effective way to show great leadership. You might learn a better way to do something and your team will feel valued.^{[5]
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- To foster an atmosphere of open communication, have people work collaboratively. You never know what will spark new ideas or projects.
- Be prepared to accept criticism without taking it personally. For instance, if someone tells you that they find you intimidating, think of ways you can relate to them that will put them at ease. It might mean spending a little more time small talk with them.

6

Admit your mistakes.

Be honest with people so you can rebuild trust. We all know that people make mistakes and that goes for leaders, too. Show your team that you're a person who's trying to do better when you mess up. Point out that you've made a mistake and let them know that you're trying to fix things. They'll have more respect for you going forward.^{[6]
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- This is so much better than denying or being unable to admit fault. People don't want to work with someone who won't take personal responsibility.
- For instance, you might say, "I know we were supposed to get a shipment today, but I didn't order it in time. I'm sorry I messed things up, but I'm going to go get the supplies that we have to have to get through today."

7

Be humble.

It's hard to maintain integrity if you don't respect others. Remind yourself that just because you're the leader, it doesn't mean that you're better than the people you're leading. Instead, find something that you value in each person and remember to treat them with respect.^{[7]
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- If you're humble and respectful to your staff, team, or children, they'll try to earn your respect.

8

Recognize accomplishments.

A great leader raises up their team so they're inspired. Don't take credit for yourself. Instead, point out when people under your leadership excel. You'll also earn their respect if you acknowledge their contributions instead of claiming them for yourself.^{[8]
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- Be specific with your praise. Instead of saying, "Good job, team," say, "Alex, I appreciate how many hours you spent on this project. Jaimie, you were so helpful at rounding up donors."

9

Hold others accountable.

Address behaviors that go against your values. At some point, you'll probably encounter behavior that you don't approve of. Don't ignore it since this would show others that you accept the behavior, but don't fly off the handle either! Pull the person aside and talk with them. Tell them that their behavior was not acceptable. There's no need to get personal—stay polite and professional so they know to correct their behavior going forward.^{[9]
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- For instance, if you saw an employee giving discounts to their friends, let them know that it's against your policy and if they continue doing it, you'll have to end the discount. You might explain that it's a benefit for people who work at the company.
- If you're encountering the same misbehavior from several people, it might be worth it to have a meeting or send out a notice reminding everyone of the values you're trying to enforce.

10

Listen to diverse viewpoints.

You want people with different viewpoints who will challenge you. If you lead people who are just like you and who are afraid to speak up when they have concerns, you may not make the best decisions. Instead, work with people who offer a unique perspective or viewpoint so you become a more effective leader.^{[10]
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- For instance, if you don't feel comfortable with people of a different race, working closely with them can help you become more sensitive and aware of others.

11

Manage personal stress.

No one wants to snap at someone in anger! If you're parenting, teaching, or leading a team, you'll probably deal with frustrating situations on a regular basis. To prevent yourself from saying something you'll regret or overreacting, try a stress-management technique that helps you calmly deal with the situation. Here are a few that work for some people:^{[11]
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- Meditation
- Reciting positive mantras
- Deep breathing
- Stretching or yoga

Expert Q&A

Question

What is integrity?

Guy Reichard
Executive Life Coach
Guy Reichard is an Executive Life Coach and the Founder of HeartRich Coaching & Training, a professional life coaching and inner leadership training provider based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He works with people to create more meaning, purpose, well-being, and fulfillment in their lives. Guy has over 10 years of personal growth coaching and resilience training experience, helping clients enhance and transform their inner worlds, so they can be a more positive and powerful influence on those they love and lead. He is an Adler Certified Professional Coach (ACPC), and is accredited by the International Coach Federation. He earned a BA in Psychology from York University in 1997 and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from York University in 2000.

Guy Reichard

Executive Life Coach

Expert Answer

Integrity is a combination of being aligned with one’s values and being consistent in words and actions.