4 Ways to Show Integrity as a Manager

In today's business world, ethics and integrity are valued by employees and clients. That all starts with management. By exhibiting integrity as a manager, you set the tone for your entire business and workplace culture. You also show the business world what they can expect from you and your company.

Showing integrity doesn’t always come intuitively, however. Sometimes we need to be proactive in becoming the kind of manager who employees and clients deeply respect. Here are a few traits of managers whose integrity shines through:

Honor Your Word

When a manager says they will do something, such as make changes or issue a reward, you need to follow through immediately. Otherwise you can lose your team's confidence and trust. But keeping your word will show that you're dependable, reliable, and honest.

Be Fair When Making Decisions

It's especially important to be fair when choosing team members for special projects or for filling a position. Giving someone special treatment when they're not actually qualified can cost you the respect of your team, which is nearly impossible to earn back.

Give Credit Where Credit is Due

There's nothing worse than a manager claiming credit for an idea or work their subordinate did or had. It creates resentment and tension in your team, which could lead you to lose some quality employees. But by giving your employees proper credit for their work will earn their respect and maintain morale.

Use Good Judgment

In order to be a manager with integrity, you should be able to consider all facets of a situation and discern accordingly. If an employee suddenly begins acting out of character and it affects their performance, don't act too hastily.

Instead, carefully look into the situation to see if it can be resolved without termination. They could have just been faced with a bad medical prognosis or have a variety of other issues at home. Use good judgment in determining that this otherwise high-performing employee may need some form of assistance to get back on track. By doing so, you'll have earned their respect and loyalty and proven that you value the welfare of your employees.