1. Character / Ethics Building Connections: Community Leadership Program

2. Character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing. Abraham Lincoln

3. Write down one example of a leader’s unethical behavior you have observed.

4. What is Character? The inherent complex of attributes that determine a persons moral and ethical actions and reactions. WRITE IT DOWN!!!

5. What are Characteristics of Character? WRITE IT DOWN!!! Honesty Competent Inspiring Courageous Tact Fairness Loyal Integrity Confident Unselfish Responsibility Citizenship Caring RespectTrustworthiness

6. Why is Character Important? Warren Bennis says, “that after vision and passion, INTEGRITY (character) is the most basic fundamental competency to be a leader.” He further points out that Integrity is the basis of TRUST.

7. Who Cares About Character? The Age of Accountability The Importance of Family Values PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS WATCHING!!!

8. Six Pillars of Character Trustworthiness Respect Responsibility Fairness Caring Citizenship Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

9. Trustworthiness Be honest Be reliable — do what you say you’ll do Have the courage to do the right thing Build a good reputation Be loyal Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

10. Respect Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule Be tolerant of differences Use good manners, not bad language Be considerate of the feelings of others Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

11. Responsibility Do what you are supposed to do Always do your best Use self-control Be self-disciplined Think before you act Be accountable for your choices Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

12. Fairness Play by the rules Take turns and share Be open-minded; listen to others Don’t take advantage of others Don’t blame others carelessly Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

13. Caring Be kind Be compassionate and show you care Express gratitude Forgive others Help people in need Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

14. Citizenship Do your share to make your community better Cooperate Get involved in community affairs Stay informed Be a good neighbor Obey laws and rules Respect authority Reference: Josephson Institute of Ethics (1996). Michael S. Josephson.

15. The Four Way Test 1.Is it the truth? 2.Is it fair to all concerned? 3.Will it build good will? 4.Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Lussier, R. N. and Achua, C. F. (2001). CAN YOU ANSWER YES? Then, it is probably ethical.

16. Conclusion In the end, all you have is who you are. Remember as a leader, you have to set the right example. People will follow your lead. Make sure you are doing the “Right Thing.”