20 UncommonSense principles to do business by
A growing body of research and literature confirms that the most effective organizational leaders demonstrate “transformation at the top.” By this I mean they strive to model high character consistently and humbly, although not perfectly. As a result, these leaders build pervasive cultures of trust and resulting greatness in their organizations.
This aptly describes the more than 85 recipients in Northern Colorado and Wyoming who have received the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics since the program began locally 18 years ago. This year our BBB will again celebrate ethics in the marketplace on April 26 with the notable addition of recognizing for the first time a local nonprofit in addition to three businesses.
Whether for-profit or nonprofit, it has become more important than ever to pay attention to character ethics for the simple reason that consumers and donors alike want to do business, buy products and receive services from — or contribute time and money to — ethical organizations that actually walk the walk in addition to just talking the talk.
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Stephen M.R. Covey writes in “Smart Trust” that, “Failing to do what you say you’re going to do as an individual creates a personal reputation or brand that diminishes trust. That’s why the most effective individuals work hard to declare their intent and do what they say they’re going to do in whatever role they’re in.”
If your company or charity — be it a startup or one that has been around for years — needs a guide or refresher on building character ethics, there’s no better place to turn than BBB’s UncommonSense Framework, a list of 20 character-building tools that affirm such qualities as honesty and integrity. These are the same character traits embraced by BBB Torch Awards for Ethics recipients locally and throughout the BBB enterprise.
Let’s take a look at the 20 principles:
Seeking Wisdom: I seek something greater than intelligence (knowing what is), I seek wisdom, knowing what is right or true.
Trustworthiness: I strive to be who I say I am and to stay true to my beliefs.
Integrity: I strive to do what I say I will do.
Honesty: I strive to consistently speak the truth with compassion.
Respect: I strive to treat others as they would want to be treated.
Compassion for others: I strive to extend unmerited kindness to others as an act of my will.
Forgiveness: I strive to extend — and receive from others — unmerited acceptance.
Unity: I strive to foster oneness among those to whom I am bound.
Learning and mentoring: I strive to grow in wisdom and pass it on.
Serving-leadership: I strive to set the sacrificial example for others to follow.
Honoring authority: I strive to respect boundaries and yield to those given responsibility for others.
Justice: I strive to uphold truth, expose error and correct wrongs.
Courage: I strive to consistently and persistently act on my strong convictions.
Accountability: I strive to self-scrutinize and seek the critique of others.
Stewardship: I strive to add value to all that has been entrusted to me.
Seeking counsel: I strive to overcome indecision and ignorance by securing wisdom from others.
Responsibility: I strive to fulfill my personal responsibilities as a good citizen.
Excellence: I strive to be my very best as I do my very best every day.
Maturation: I strive to accept change and seek personal improvement over time.
Transformation: I strive to demonstrate constantly improving, positive high character.
Pam King is president and chief executive of BBB Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming.
