Here's a New Concept, Integrity in Business

Abstract

It is harder and harder to survive in the business world with integrity, however, integrity is actually the very thing that can bring success.

Have you ever had to work with one or more people who would do anything to get to the top? Were you frustrated because you have values that conflict with this type of behavior?

Years ago, I worked for a company selling diamonds and gemstones. When I came into the company there were 8 of us that worked in the Fine Jewelry department. Two of the women in the department had been with the company for several years and had consistently been the two top sales associates.

After working alongside these women for several months, some interesting facts began to manifest themselves. It came to our attention that the reason the two women were consistently on top was that they were not only being dishonest with other associates, but some of their practices were also even illegal.

Two young girls who worked in our department watched what was going on. They decided that if the other two women were getting away with these types of practices then “hey, why couldn’t they”? Three out of the eight of us were in our early thirties. We were horrified at this prospect! We conversed and decided to prove to the department that not only could we outsell the two dishonest women, but we would do it honestly. In less than two weeks, the three of us moved to the top three positions of the department and remained there consistently over the next several months.

If you have worked in the real world long enough, you too have stories that you could share. This is not unique by any means. The view of many is that it is alright to step on another person to get to the top. It doesn’t matter who they hurt, as long as they succeed.

I truly believe that integrity, honesty, treating others with respect and dignity are the most powerful forces in the Universe. I have also had the privilege of working with a team of women that did have integrity and were honest. We worked together as a team and had each other's backs. What a refreshing experience! Everyone succeeded and no one was fighting for the top. The common denominator between all of us is believing in the power of good. You can call it “Karma”, “Do Unto Others”, “The Golden Rule”, or so on. Whatever your personal belief system, It Works!

It has amazed me how people can look you right in the eye and lie. They feel so justified in their actions and in their lies, they actually begin to believe the lie themselves. What they often do not realize, honest people are aware of the deception and see it for what it is a lie. In fact, inside they are thinking, is this guy (or girl) for real?

We cannot control the actions of others, however, we can control our actions! Remember, to every action there is a reaction. No action taken is ever without consequence, either negative or positive.

In the end, we will not only be more successful by our honesty and integrity but, we will draw others to us who have the same value system. Each time we add to our circle of associates and friends that positive synergy, we (everyone) can become more influential and successful.