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Irma Becerra is president of Marymount University, a comprehensive doctoral-granting university known for its innovative curriculum.
Leaders around the globe faced a relentless onslaught of difficult decisions when the world came apart at the seams in the spring of 2020. Those who were grounded in solid values were able to assess the evolving crisis while simultaneously developing a strategic plan, but that is not to say it was easy or without challenges.
During such a challenging time in history, how can leaders lead well while also effecting change? How can we consistently focus on continual improvement and growth amidst the unprecedented and urgent needs that define Covid-19 times? Here are some insights I gained through my own experiences these last few years.
Upon reflecting on the many stressful obstacles of 2020, I can honestly say integrity was the leadership skill I relied on most. Without question, modeling and reinforcing integrity made all the difference in our organization’s successful outcome. I believe a leader’s success stems from their commitment to standing by their words, actions, decisions and methodologies.
Leaders who foster a culture of integrity earn a reputation for being honest and trustworthy. Trust within an organization is so crucial for everyday productivity and long-term success; in tough times, employees want to answer to a leader they know they can trust and rely on. Resilient teams thrive under the direction of leaders who instinctively do the right thing — especially in challenging, uncertain times. As leaders, we must model excellence to set the tone and clearly define expectations.
With that in mind, here are four ways to foster a culture of integrity within an organization.
- Consistently demonstrate acts of integrity.
Leaders must determine what integrity is and model it within their organization through their adherence to consistent processes, compliance, accountability and ethical behavior. People see every positive step a leader takes and appreciate even the smallest acts of consideration and respect. They also see every misstep and slight, so lead with humility and acknowledge and apologize for mistakes. Remember, great leaders aspire for excellence, not perfection.
- Support and inspire with an open-door policy.
A leader must identify and prioritize institutional needs in times of crisis, and what better way to collect vital information than through meaningful and informative discussions? I am very hands-on and maintain an open-door policy for my faculty, staff, students and stakeholders. From students to board members, no one has qualms about telling me what they think works — or, for that matter, what does not work.
Leaders can make a positive and lasting impact by building a foundation from which to innovate and grow as an organization. That intent on acting with empathy and understanding must remain open to differing opinions and new ideas.
- Hone active listening skills to communicate with clarity.
You need to listen actively if you want to understand the perspectives of others and benefit from cognitive diversity. Active listening involves focusing on hearing and validating the speaker rather than trying to assess the message and offer your own opinion. People are willing to be vulnerable to leaders who listen to their ideas and opinions without interruption or immediate judgment, and the trust that develops from being truly heard makes people more inclined to commit fully to working together.
Open-ended and probing questions are crucial active listening tools. They help clarify messages needed to make progress, especially when team members collaborate. So don’t be shy — ask questions about any ambiguous or unclear issue. Sometimes simply saying “I don’t follow, can you please clarify?” can prompt someone to speak more precisely.
When we genuinely listen to understand, it becomes possible to pick up on underlying facts, feelings and values behind shared words. This one behavior can go far in building a workplace culture of integrity at the organizational level.
- Reflect on and revisit priorities and goals.
Making frequent checks at established milestones can go far in making sure that decisions are thoroughly thought through and implemented with the organization’s values and best interests in mind. No leader can accomplish everything alone — the support of an entire organization is vital to success. With this in mind, maintain open communication channels when you follow up on where your teams are at in regards to goals, and make a point of keeping your communications direct and considerate. This communication can help you stay aware of how responsibilities flow through your organization, whether more resources are in order and when or if a course correction is necessary.
Remember, people want to work for ethical leaders. With the Great Resignation underway, it is all the more essential to build a foundation on solid principles and create an environment where everyone has a voice, ideas flourish and all perspectives matter.
