To me, an ethical leader possesses several main qualities:
- Encouraging collaboration and highlighting each team member’s strengths.
Great leaders foster an environment where everyone feels included; not only is the progress made by working together, but each team member feels valued and appreciated for their skills. Instead of focusing solely on competition, an ethical leader ensures that their team feels supported and uplifted by those around them. Before working at the ILC, I thought that a boss and leader were the same things. Now, I know that a true leader doesn’t separate themself from the rest of the group. They are eager to stand beside their team and solve problems together.
- Practicing kindness and empathy with their team.
Being an ethical leader involves building genuine connections with those around you. Part of a leader’s job is to use their platform to inspire and help others. By showcasing qualities like kindness, empathy, vulnerability, and honesty, ethical leaders encourage others to do the same in their own lives. Leadership involves being a role model and showcasing traits that create a comfortable, welcoming environment for everyone.
- Prioritizing integrity and honesty instead of winning or material gain.
Maintaining integrity and trustworthiness are two crucial components to being an ethical leader. In the midst of striving for a goal, leaders must choose to prioritize honesty over fraudulent wins. Once their credibility is lost, a leader cannot easily have the respect and trust needed for a productive team. No goal is worth jeopardizing your integrity or character.
