According to the Collins Dictionary online, “if you have integrity, you are honest and firm in your moral principles.” Personal integrity is an inborn moral conviction to do what is right, and reject that which is wrong, regardless of the consequences that are attached to their decisions, writes Kathy Miles in her article, The Importance of Integrity in the Workplace. Integrity, or having strong ethical and moral principles, is an essential trait that employers highly value. In fact, integrity is the foundation of a successful employee-employer relationship. Experts believe that integrity helps promotes a professional culture in which individuals can depend on one another and treat each other with respect, be it at the workplace or elsewhere. Integrity in the workplace is one of the most important qualities that recruiters seek in the people they hire. Diana Nawatti, an educator and counsellor in Kigali, says integrity involves honesty and moral and ethical principles, and that it is a fundamental value for all employees. “This is important at all levels and as an individual. Being honest and having integrity will help you build a better relationship with your co-workers in all areas,” she says. She goes on to add that an employee with integrity will always outshine others and they do not undermine fellow workers; instead, they work just as hard, whether they are being watched or not, which is important for the growth of the company. Nawatti says that such employees can always be counted on to do their best, and they will be honest enough to admit if they have made mistakes. It’s also rare for someone with integrity to blame others for mistakes or challenges experienced by the organisation. This, she says, is one way of inspiring other people, as well as creating a positive and upbeat work environment for everyone. How to establish integrity in the workplace: Respect and follow company policies Workplace policies are created to guide you on the best practices for everything, from conduct to dress code. Following your company policy enables you to make informed decisions based on the business’ values and objectives. Be ready to work Many of us know people who are willing to delegate but hesitant to get their hands dirty. Employees with integrity, on the other hand, are willing to go above and beyond with their own work and help others out if the situation calls for it. Lead by example Your working style and attitude towards others will help set a solid foundation for what you value most in others, especially people who report to you. Working to a high standard and maintaining professional conduct encourages others to follow suit. Respect others’ opinions, even if you don’t agree with them No matter how great your working environment may be, chances are there will be times when you simply don’t agree with someone else’s opinion. In these cases, it’s still important to be respectful, listen, and take on board what the other person is saying. Be accountable for your mistakes Everybody makes mistakes from time to time. Owning up to and being accountable for your mistakes demonstrates that you’re honest and open to constructive feedback – both traits that are common to people with a high degree of workplace integrity.
