Showing strong leadership skills takes time to build and there are many lessons to be learnt. This includes taking the time to develop insight into what kind of a leader you are and want to be. This takes openness to ask for feedback and to accept areas that could be tweaked. The best leaders have a foundation of knowing who they are and can then lead authenticity and with integrity.
Leaders without integrity tend to crumble under pressure.
Integrity comes in a number of forms
- Personal integrity – being honest with, and true to, oneself. Leaders with personal integrity are comfortable in who they are and confident in their abilities. People are drawn to leaders with personal integrity because they know these individuals are genuine and mean what they say.
- Moral integrity – holding on to one’s own moral values and principles, doing what’s right, even when it’s not easy. People are drawn to leaders with moral integrity because they know these individuals will be clear about what is right for them.
- Ethical integrity – includes honesty and transparency in actions, being fair and just, acting in the best interests of everyone. People are drawn to leaders with ethical integrity because they know these individuals can be trusted to do what is right.
- Intellectual integrity – honesty and transparency in thought. Being logical and reasonable, with a willingness for open-minded discussions and debates without getting personal. People are drawn to these leaders because they know these individuals can be trusted to have honest and reasonable discussions.
How to build integrity as a leader
Building integrity as a leader starts with being honest with yourself. Take some time to reflect on your own values and principles. What do you believe in? What is important to you?
It’s important to be transparent, honest and open with your team. If you make a mistake, own up to it and take responsibility. People will respect you more if they know that you’re willing to admit your mistakes and learn from them.
- Trust yourself – If you are constantly second-guessing your instincts or doubting that your choices are right, no one else will trust what you do. Confidence comes from trusting yourself. If you make a decision, stand by it and communicate your reasons for doing so to others.
- Be clear and consistent – If your values and beliefs are wavering, it will be evident to others who won’t view your words and actions as trustworthy.
- Be reliable – being trustworthy hinges on what you say you will do and following through.
- Be accountable for your actions – take responsibility for your mistakes for doing better next time.
- Stand up for what you believe in, even when it’s unpopular – people will see that you have integrity, and they’ll trust what you say.
- Showing respect – it will help you in return.
- Don’t expect trust from others until you have proved yourself to them.
- Be fair and objective – objectivity is essential for being trustworthy.
- Act ethically even when no one else can see you.
- Build up your credibility – make good choices in all areas of your life, building up your reputation as being reliable and trustworthy.
If you would benefit from discussing your leadership skills and grow your integrity, professional supervision might be for you.
Learn more: Supervision/Coaching