Question: (E-181)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on April 20, 2005
"Press has its own responsibility
as well"
How can an unproven charge like "a Wendy's
Restaurant served a customer a severed finger in a
bowl of chili" be reported as fact by newspapers,
radio and television? Is this an integrity issue?
Response:
Certainly, this hideous saga is convoluted. But, let's start with the
facts. An individual has accused a restaurant of serving a section of human-finger
in her bowl of chili. That is the truth. She made a claim.
Telling the world about it violates no principles
of integrity. Freedom of the press means exactly that.
Reporters have responsibilities. A good place to start
is to review the First Amendment to the United States
Constitution. "Congress shall make
no law respecting an establishment of religion, or
prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging
the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right
of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition
the Government for a redress of grievances."
Yes, this particularly fateful luncheon story has
taken on a life of its own, being catapulted into national
and international news. Media decision-makers may have
felt compelled to reveal the charge against the Wendy's
franchise in San Jose, California. They certainly understood
the ramifications. Each day since March 22, 2005, the
disgusting story creates a growing economic challenge
for Wendy's Restaurants. The owner, in whose
location the "chili" debacle is said to
have occurred, faces financial reversals, having already
been convicted by the "court of public opinion."
Freedom has a price tag and so does integrity. People
and companies, including restaurants, can behave inappropriately
and there are consequences.
Even so, had this incident not been reported widely,
would the plaintiff have elected, so very quickly,
to withdraw her suit against Wendy's? Thanks
to the "tenacious" reporters and their
follow-up, integrity questions have surfaced. Was the
motivation for this "incident" simply an
opportunity for an enterprising "serial filer
of frivolous lawsuits" to pursue easy money from
an organization with deep pockets? Or, did the restaurant
violate food quality standards?
Lawsuits like this one, whether well-founded or frivolous,
create suffering. Employees will work fewer hours as
business continues to decline. Fortunately, there is
an upside. Freedom of the press will drive further "vetting" of
both parties involved. Accusations presented and assessed,
in the shadows, sometimes called maliciousness and
backstabbing, are impossible to resolve constructively.
So, having the press shine the spotlight on the "chili
debacle" will likely lead to clarity and integrity.
Wendy's Restaurants will be found innocent or
guilty and so will the individual making the charges.
My own management consulting experience with leadership teams
follows the constructive media model. Confront challenges
with integrity. If a member of a team has a concern
or frustration with a colleague, one effective way
to achieve resolution is for those in conflict to deal
directly and resolve the problems. In this "finger-in-the-chili" situation,
the media is driving for resolution.
Truth, justice and integrity are worth the wait and the
media can offer constructive assistance.
Question: (E-182)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on April 27, 2005
"War should be last resort to solve
problems"
You write about integrity-centered leadership. What
is your position on war?
Response:
A special friend of mine, a retired Colonel, spent his 30-year career defending
the United States, on five continents. He has seen of the horrors of war, up
close and personal. He carries shrapnel in his body in several places and has
been shot more times than he cares to remember. He even risked his own life
to protect a colleague by smothering an exploding hand-grenade. He tells me
war is the last resort because it is an awful way to resolve differences. Lives,
families, dreams and legacies are destroyed when leaders declare war. My personal
position on war is to pray for the safety of those who lay down their lives
to protect and preserve the way of life my society has afforded me and those
I love.
The integrity of life itself is placed at risk when
war becomes the path forward, for any reason. Yet,
the history of the United States of America was created
from an armed conflict that challenged taxation without
representation and oppressive "foreign" intervention.
Without the American Revolution, there would not have
been a United States emerging at the time of Washington,
Adams, Jefferson, Franklin and Hamilton, in the last
quarter of the 18trh Century. Was that war necessitated
by integrity-centered leadership issues? Millions would
say it was.
War is appropriate when it its purpose is to fight
poverty, disease, intolerance, drunk driving, and irresponsible
behaviors including violence, ignorance, corruption,
and graffiti, killing in the name of religion and drug
abuse. With more thinking time, there are probably
other powerful battles that would make it onto my "sanctioned" integrity-centered
wars list. War is the escalation of disagreement beyond
the willingness of opposing forces to resolve differences
peacefully. When positions are hardened, by either
side, and conversations stop, which often means that
relationships have broken down, conflict is inevitable.
Individuals experience "war" everyday when
they get fired, divorced, arrested or jailed. In global
conflicts, soldiers and civilians are wounded and killed
by rockets and bombs. Do integrity-centered leaders
choose war? Yes.
When children are no longer singing, it may be time for
war. Adults owe the next generation a wholesome place
to be loved, nurtured and educated. Those responsible
for young people must create and preserve an environment
that is free from destructive tension, fear, hunger and
homelessness. When that is not possible, then it may
be time for actions to be taken to restore a safe-haven
where children can again laugh and sing, play and learn.
When the music of the children stops; when youth no longer
have confidence that those around them care for them
as people, not property, as the promise of the future,
not as cheap slave-labor for today; then it may be time
to demand changes, with little willingness to compromise.
Integrity-centered leadership can choose to re-shape
the future by enabling all the children to sing again.
Neither integrity nor safety is free.
Question: (E-183)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on May 4, 2005
"Media spotlight unjustly shines
on Letourneau"
Where is the integrity of a married thirty-five
year old public school teacher, Mary Kay Letourneau,
who has a sexual affair (twice) with a thirteen-year-old,
who was one of her middle-school students? Now she
is a celebrity - made famous by the media!
Response:
Parents send their children to schools to learn. They have every right to
expect the school environment to be safe and nurturing, and for those teaching
to model constructive behaviors. When teachers and leaders of youth are out
of control, creating uncertainty and instability, then changes will be made
and disciplines increased. Teachers are taught appropriate standards of behavior
that are never to be violated. Doctors, lawyers, bankers, and many other professions
have written codes of conduct. Teachers, the stewards of value and content
education, are expected to be role models, inside and outside the classroom.
The Seattle-area school teacher, Mary Kay Letourneau,
broke the law along with the rules of common sense
and decency, was convicted of second-degree rape and
required to serve seven years in prison, having just
recently been released. Today, she and her "child-lover" are
the "toast of talk show television." How
can a sexual predator, convicted of rape, twice, achieve
celebrity status? The media made this educator-turned-criminal
into a "hot" topic, perhaps for no other
reasons than increased ratings and revenue. How disappointing!
Had this type of teacher-student seduction been initiated
by a male teacher, impregnating a 13-year-old young
woman, how long might the rapist have been placed behind
bars? Upon release from prison, how many responsible
news shows would make his story nightly "fodder" for
other demented "copy cats" to emulate?
Letourneau's behaviors are similar to actions
taken by pedophile priests. Seducing and abusing those
who are not in position to protect themselves; whether
in the classroom, the prayer chapel or the work-place,
must be stopped. This sexual affair, between a female
school teacher who was 35 at the time, and a 13 year
old male, is indefensible. What possible good can be
served by providing a convicted felon with a media
platform upon which to revise her own sordid history,
repackaging her second-degree rape story in order justify
her criminal behavior? Has she found a media partner
to help her write and sell her book and then produce
her made-for-television movie?
One middle school teacher's depraved behavior,
taken center stage by the media, discounts the hard
work and dedication of an overwhelming number of educators.
We know that real news is "the news you and I
need to keep our freedoms." Real news does not
sensationalize and glamorize the activities of an emotionally
unstable educator with a sexually-active child, day
after day, and week after week.
It is time for the media to celebrate the contributions
of millions of teachers who, for their entire careers,
quietly and diligently instruct, counsel and mentor tens
of millions of young people, with uncompromising integrity.
These teachers provide safe and nurturing environments
for young people because they know integrity
matters.
Question: (E-184)
"Baseball, drugs and government regulation"
The institutions of baseball - players, unions
and owners - continue to be reluctant to address the
performance-enhancing drug issue. Why? The answer seems
to be greed. Players want incredible salaries; owners
want to fill stadiums with popcorn-eating, thirsty
fans with money; fans want something to cheer about!
Drama helps to fill those seats and pay those dollars
as seen by the fans following the incredible feats
of the last few years. But, the question remains: were
the athletes competing honestly? How will we know for
sure? If they cheated, will their records be tainted?
If not an "asterisk," why not?
Response:
Baseball's inadequate response to the steroid issue fails to live up
to the fair play image as part of its values It also undermines the moral
fabric of society by destroying the promise of integrity in sports competition.
Professional baseball has been slow to apply strong sanctions. Now, members
of Congress accuse baseball of decaying from the inside. When the Senate of
the United States spends its time, and our money, addressing baseball's
top brass about common-sense decency and care of the human body, then that
amount of their time is not available for other business: e.g., national security,
terrorist threats, jobs and training, health care and education.
From the first time I ever wore a baseball glove,
my parents and coaches said to play fair. What happened?
Do professional athletes, their union officials, and
the team owners need the "adult supervision" of
elected officials and their staffs? Do they need a
host of expensively-constructed government rules and
regulations? It would appear that greed has turned
what once was called our "national pastime" into
a sham of fraudulent behaviors protected by scam artists
and charlatans. How sad. All of this makes headlines
while anxious parents are telling children to "quit
squabbling and fighting" and behave like adults.
Really? And, which adults?
In the late 1990's, values such as integrity, loyalty,
honesty and openness, came to be viewed as conservative
relics of the old economy. Society became pre-occupied
with winning and winners, admiring superstars who became
rich and powerful celebrities. Little notice was given
to how some might have "gotten there," endorsing
those holding the records, without qualification. If
there had been undiscovered cheating along the way,
the response was: well then, so what? The drive for
recognition (pleasure, wealth, fame or power) captured
our society. Some made it to the top and celebrated
their success with opulent life styles.
Too many athletes drifted toward self-destruction
as growing numbers, from high school up to the professional
ranks, raced to use performance-enhancing drugs
to gain an edge. Competition on the uneven field of
play was between those who followed the rules of fairness
and those who were short-term victors, record holders
and celebrities. We now know that "miracle muscle
drugs" have damaged bodies, minds and lives.
All the while, those who could have initiated regulation
and control looked the other way. After all, record-breaking
performances have been good for ticket sales and free
agency. But, are we forgetting the fans, especially
the young people? What is this teaching them?
Sports leadership spoke too frequently through hollow
values to what sensation-seeking fans demanded. Perhaps
the demands were unreasonable; maybe unattainable,
without illegal substances. We may never know for sure.
Something is horribly wrong when unreasonable demands
are imposed upon the performer; whether as a chief
executive of a public firm facing the earnings demands
of analysts, or as athletes threatened with the early
end to a career if their performances should fall below
their drug-using competitors. Real leadership would
address these issues, openly and with character, delivering
what is appropriate and legal. Any other response lacks
integrity.
As we begin the fourth year of the Twenty-first Century,
sports leadership-including baseball-needs
to rethink priorities. Unfortunately, certain prevailing
structures promote the economics of convenience over
the commitment of integrity-centered leadership, promoting
artificially-induced athletic achievement supported
by devastating dishonesty. Here is the bottom line: It
should be common knowledge that free markets, including
all participants in baseball, must regulate themselves
or our government must, and will.
We say to baseball: For the sake of integrity and future
generations of young people - please clean up your act.
We need your sport. We simply need for the competition
to exhibit the integrity of fair play!
Question: (E-185)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on October 5, 2005
"Loss of integrity begins with just
a single step"
The Chinese philosopher Lao Tse is quoted as saying "a
journey of a thousand miles begins with but a single
step." What are the little things that young executives
do that numb their consciences and lead them down the
pathway to these colossal failures in behaving with
integrity?
Response:
Stealing can start as simply of taking more than the agreed-upon time for lunch.
Lying can be as easy as not alerting a potential customer of all of the weaknesses
of a product. Cheating may occur on a golf course with reference to rolling
a ball from behind a tree or shrub or making a questionable call (in order
to win a point) about an out of bounds hit against an opponent during a game
of tennis. Padding business expense accounts with personal purchases is a
step down the slippery slope. Coming in late and leaving early, with no medical
or personal emergency, is another form of dishonesty. Chatting with friends
instead of attending to assigned duties is yet another violation of trust,
a form of thievery. Tardiness at meetings, consistently, is a form of "stealing
time from others" and is not only disrespectful, it is costly in terms
of hours wasted in too-often "idle waiting" which in a most extreme
interpretation is a flagrant violation of basic decency.
From this short list of "understandable and
expected" so-called modern business behaviors,
in some sick circles of free enterprise, there is an
easy transition to more serious violations of the rules
of social and economic responsibility. Legitimate business
lunches evolve into events attracting friends and family
for expensive dinners. These compromising executives
feel the company really owes them for their sacrifices
of time and hard work, and why not share their good
life with people they like, even when no legitimate
business purpose is served. Lying to customers, or
simply allowing them to discover the weaknesses of
the products on their own, may roll over into asking
for kick-backs from suppliers. Since winning is the
name of the game, beginning with "macho-behaviors" related
to sports and even drinking - then undercutting,
backstabbing, back-channeling and other ferocious and
image-destroying activities are well within the attractive
options open to these same folks.
Pretty soon, the busy and already-compromised corporate
executive will be less likely to see any harm in asking
for loans from the company for personal use. After
all, who deserves a low-cost loan more than a highly-compensated
top manager? If the deal is done "just right" it
might be "forgiven" and that is certainly
appropriate for those of economic privilege. Even if
many lower level folks lose their jobs during tough
business times, that is simply too bad. The power lunches,
the extravagant parties, the luxury yachts, the elegant
offices - all can become entitlements - unrelated
to the productivity or the effectiveness of those engaged
in leveraging the position for life-style perks and
organizational impact.
Are business executives really this irresponsible?
A few are. Read the headlines and then turn to the
pages that list thousands of companies that are never
discussed, never associated with fraud, greed or misappropriation
of funds. Most leaders go to work to do a good job,
each and every day. They are good stewards for their
respective enterprises, whether in technology, medicine,
energy, teaching, entertainment, construction, the
military or government service. They play the game
of life, fairly. They are not cheaters at card games,
monopoly, or marriage. They are good to their families,
support charities, and would never evade paying their
taxes.
Addictions like lying, cheating and stealing are habit
forming. The integrity of individuals can be measured
in just how easily (and cheaply) they will compromise
in order to win. When individuals will cheat for a
dollar or ten, how vicious might they become when the
potential rewards reach into the thousands and millions?
Along time ago, a wise teacher suggested that those
who were good stewards over a small amount could expect
to be stewards over that which was much larger. Stewards
are interested in taking care of that for which they
assume responsibility, for the sake of all the interested
parties, stakeholders, and would never compromise for
self-serving gain. Prudent stewards, including those
who are responsible executives, avoid the slippery
slope because they know that integrity matters. Learning
early the pitfalls of self-serving greed can generate
great dividends for lives well-spent, organizations
well-served and societies improved.
Question: (E-186)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on May 18, 2005
"Writer, reader see different sides
of bias"
Media bias lacks integrity, right?
Response:
My first business mentor explained the difference between stubborn and loyal.
When he asked if I knew the difference, I paused, and he took the silence as
permission for him to define the terms: loyal is when you agree with me and
stubborn is when you don't. We laughed, but I did get the point. He taught
me many lessons, none more important than this insight about single-mindedness,
to be contrasted with narrow-mindedness. Perhaps bias fits into the same distinction,
namely, it depends on whether or not one agrees with what someone else says
or writes. Bias, defined as prejudice, in any circumstance, lacks integrity.
But, before being too harsh on media bias, let's assess the implications.
Some people avoid thinking for themselves. Perhaps
they lack the language skills, the time or maybe they
are simply lazy. They prefer to have information interpreted
for them. Savvy marketing professionals know how to
package products, including headlines and stories,
to attract customers. Unless or until more individuals
are willing to research and study issues, whether economic,
political, religious or cultural, then it should be
no surprise that those selling news products will provide
attractive, sometimes sensational, headlines, to increase
mind share and market share. Is this bias or shrewd
business?
A dozen years ago, I spoke with former North Carolina
State University basketball coach, Jim Valvano. It
was just before the United States was at war with Iraq,
for the first time, and Coach "V" and I
were talking about important lessons we remembered
from our childhood days; his in a big city, New York,
and mine in small towns in Indiana and Missouri. What
was particularly interesting was his story about how
his father had taught a valuable lesson about intellectual
snobbery and bias.
Watching their Dad reading the color comics, one
wise-cracking brother asked why Mr. Valvano read only
the "funny papers" on Sunday. A long pause
was followed by silence. Then the color comics were
noisily folded in half and firmly placed on the lamp
table next to their Dad's favorite over-stuffed
chair.
Mr. Valvano, looking at his two sons with college
degrees, reminded them that he enjoyed the comics because
he had difficulty reading. He mentioned that he was
glad that his sons could read better than he could;
but that he enjoyed the comics, especially the pictures,
because they helped his understanding of English, his
second language. And, then he made a powerful point. "Cartoons
are for those who don't read so well and editorials
are for those who don't think so well." Famous
Jim Valvano then told me that he and his brother were
ashamed of their glib comments and immediately they
apologized. Valvano intellectual bias/snobbery was
extinguished.
Bias, by the media or individuals, can occur any time,
seldom reflecting integrity. Drawing conclusions hastily,
without thoughtfulness and thoroughness, will lead to
errors in judgment. Bias and prejudice, of all types,
must go away because integrity matters, in all situations.
Question: (E-187)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on May 25, 2005
"Hospitality workers need not play
the parent"
Are hospitality employees responsible for "parenting" party-going
teens, whether at proms or graduation celebrations?
Recently some school administrators advised a hotel
not to rent sleeping rooms to high school students
attending a prom. What does such a naive request really
mean?
Response:
Parents are responsible for their children and educators are hired to provide
insights and nurture learning. Teachers are unable to do their jobs when they
are confronted, daily, with out-of-control behaviors being modeled, sanctioned
and financed by irresponsible parents. Teachers have been complaining that
an increasing amount of their classroom time is being spent on discipline,
not academic content. When human beings, especially younger people, are not
provided with clear expectations and limits, then chaos is the outcome. Hormone-driven
teenagers have the most need, with the least appreciation, for guidelines that
clarify consequences.
At age 16, I remember arriving home later than agreed;
at 3:30 a.m. versus my midnight curfew. My tardiness
was met with a silent stare from my pacing and coffee-drinking
father. His few words, beyond saying he was relieved
that I was home safe, related to my need to be ready
to do a few chores in two hours. Dad never was much
with spanking or loud lectures. Guilt was a powerful
five-letter word. Terms like responsibility and respect
were sprinkled through Dad's comments about how
one should treat even strangers, let alone parents.
This particular late-without-even-a phone-call was
serious. It involved my washing and waxing two automobiles
in 98-degree summer heat in Missouri, starting at 5:30
a.m. Even today, I phone when I might be late.
There were times it would have been easier to receive
a good "thumping" in place of Dad's
stories about honor, loyalty and, yes, integrity. Once,
attempting to impress friends, I exploded the muffler
and manifold, with the turn of key, and presto,
I made a roaring monster out of my parent's quiet
four-door sedan. This poor decision involved costly
consequences. I spent the summer following my junior
year in high school working long hours handing over
my paychecks to Dad for the repairs. This time I learned
respect for borrowed equipment, including automobiles.
Parents and school administrators must get real and
remain engaged. Hotels are not surrogate parents. Children
see adults abdicating responsibilities in an ever-increasingly
permissive society. Teachers are restrained from challenging
family-sanctioned misbehavior. Heroes, for many young
people, are media-manufactured. Some are spoiled celebrities
and others are winners who lie, cheat and connive on
reality shows.
For now, parents and educators, join arms and enforce
constructive standards. Stand for integrity by showing
up and supporting the values you admire. It is prom
time. With approval from those in authority, take actions:
- Get involved.
- Offer to be a chaperone.
- Prowl the parking lots.
- Move around the dance floor.
- Roam the halls.
Integrity, and our children, can be the winners.
Question: (E-188)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on June 8, 2005
"Character"
Does anybody do the right thing any more?
Response:
Yes, and a case in point relates to a police report coming from Texas. The
woman who did the right thing will probably never receive public recognition,
but her story is commendable and reassuring. Over and over, we remind our readers
that character is what folks do when no one is watching. And, you can restore
your confidence in the goodness of people when you learn of the decisiveness,
courage and compassion of this young woman. She was driving early one morning,
at the speed limit, about 65 miles per hour, only to catch in her rearview
mirror the sight of two cars catching up to her rapidly. She recognized that
the speeding vehicles were weaving close to one another and she became anxious.
Noting the cars were side by side, one in her lane, she knew to move to the
right to get out of the way. As the vehicles passed she observed the drivers
screaming and gesturing crudely to one another.
Returning to her lane, and proceeding directly behind
them, only seconds later, one car bumped the other
hard enough to knock it sideways and then smash into
it again creating a horrible out-of control spin and
crash. One car hurled crashing head on into the oncoming
lane while the other driver sped away. Using her cell
phone, the alert observer phoned emergency response
professionals at 911 and then increased her speed until
the other vehicle could be identified, including its
license number. Returning to the scene of the accident,
she saw police officers removing dead bodies; trying
to reconstruct the accident. She was able to provide
valuable information and learned later in the same
day that the fleeing driver had been apprehended.
How many people would simply drive on? After all,
who would know for certain who was there as a witness?
Who would possibly question a person who simply stopped
to wait for the police to arrive? Who expects modern-day
drivers to place themselves at risk to gather information
for those in law enforcement? Isn't that the
job of police officers? In this instance, the ordinary
citizen, a decent and caring young woman, accepted
responsibility for making the world a better place
and went the extra mile, in this case, probably several
miles, at personal risk.
The lawbreaker (involved in a multiple homicide)
is in custody. Whatever this individual says to explain
the road-rage is simply unacceptable. Accidental murder
with a motor vehicle is sickening. But intentional
vehicular homicide is incomprehensible.
The good from this story is the integrity of one
young woman. Her actions are a reminder to be responsive
to the needs of others and a role model to do the right
thing, even when no one is watching.
IF IT IS TO BE; (sometimes this is
the truth) IT IS UP TO ME; AND YES, YOU TOO.
Question: (E-189)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on June 1, 2005
"Workers require integrity as well"
You write that leaders need integrity, but what about
employees?
Response:
Integrity matters regardless of one's responsibilities. Leaders are
important, but without integrity-centered followers, organizations cannot
be effective. Organizations need committed followers who think,
are self starters, carry out duties with energy and assertiveness, take risks
and solve problems independently. Do you and the leaders of your organization
proudly and energetically recognize and promote valuable, integrity-centered
followers?
Almost twenty years ago, Robert E. Kelley, in the Harvard
Business Review, described the attributes of
legitimate followers. He mentioned that integrity-centered
followers are not sheep that are
passive, uncritical and dependent, lacking initiative.
Nor are they yes people who appear
overly deferential, spending lots of energy building
alliances between and among other yes people and
insecure managers. Integrity-centered followers are
not passive, unwilling to challenge
leadership. They do not play it safe,
waiting to see which way the wind blows before making
a suggestion or taking action. Integrity-centered
followers do not adopt the slogan: "better
safe than sorry." Long-term viability requires
leaders and followers who are single-minded and hard
working.
Effective followers exhibit many admirable qualities.
They manage themselves well. They are committed to
the organization; its vision, mission and culture.
They stand tall and proud in support of the individual
whose enterprise they serve. They build their competence
and focus their efforts for maximum impact. They exhibit
the Eight Attributes©: character,
honesty, openness, authority, partnership, performance,
charity and graciousness.
Enthusiasm, intelligence, and self-reliance cause
followers to be effective. They are engaged without
the need to be the star, always eager to work toward
the achievement of organizational goals. Effective
followers are motivated to be team players. Upfront
about their ambition to get ahead, they desire to earn
as they learn.
Effective leaders have the vision to set corporate
goals and strategies, the interpersonal skills to communicate
enthusiasm, combined with the capability to coordinate
different efforts with the desire to lead. Effective
followers understand and support organizational vision.
They refine their social skills to work well with others
and exhibit the strength of character to flourish without
heroic status. These productive individuals possess
the moral and psychological balance to pursue personal
and corporate goals for those they respect and admire.
Perhaps the most reassuring realization about leaders
and followers is the similarity between the two. Each
exhibits initiative, self-control, commitment, talent,
honesty, credibility, courage and integrity. Because
you admire those who deliver your products and services
effectively, and want them to continue being productive,
then let them know. Integrity is essential throughout
organizations and is sustained through careful hiring,
thorough training. Effective leaders provide public
and private recognition.
How well do you measure up as a leader and a follower?
What steps are you prepared to take to improve?
Question: (E-190)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on July 13, 2005
"Movie reminds us of our 'Field of
Dreams'"
Can a movie pass along values like integrity?
Response:
Yes. In the1989 fantasy movie Field of Dreams, the values advocated
were admirable. Ray Kinsella (played by famous actor Kevin Costner) comes
face to face with his father, John Kinsella, and the two of them ask important
questions of each other. The ghostly father, John, presented in his youth
as a professional baseball player, looks around the beautifully manicured
baseball field and asks of the young farmer, his son: "Is this heaven?" "No," replies
his son (Costner), "this is Iowa."
After a short pause, Ray, the son, appearing uncertain
and perplexed, inquires of his father - "Is
there a heaven?" "Oh, yes, there is a heaven," says
Ray's father, John, "heaven is
where dreams come true."
Kevin Costner portrays Ray Kinsella, a farmer who
constructs a baseball diamond in his Dyersville, Iowa
corn field at the repeated urging of a mystical voice
that intones to him, "If you build it, they will
come. . ."
Fellow actor in Field of Dreams, James Earl
Jones, plays the l960's activist and writer,
Terence Mann, summarizes the meaning of the moment
for the Iowa Farmer, offering this insight: "Here
we are today, longing for the past and for all that
was good then, and could be good again." The
movie makes the point that we can capture the best
of who we were by being the best of what we know to
do, now. Field of Dreams is about integrity,
accountability and stewardship.
Earlier in the film, the young farmer is carefully
watching his father, explaining to his wife that he "really
only knew his father when he had been worn down by
life." Once again, the message from the film
is clear, life is a precious cycle and constructive
relationships are what make it meaningful and hopeful.
Field of Dreams teaches: "What we
do, both the good and the generous, quite often we
do for ourselves." Giving can be a selfish act
of caring. Exhibiting constructive behaviors: character,
honesty, openness, authority, partnership, performance,
charity and graciousness is an effective way of passing
along life-affirming values. There is no substitute
for being a positive role model.
Field of Dreams applies to the nitty-gritty
challenges people face every day. Every individual
is responsible for being a good steward, of land, ideas,
friendships, family values. Dreams can come true. They
have in the past and they will in the future. Providing
the roadmap of integrity-centered living is the greatest
legacy that can be passed along to our children and
the grandchildren of our grandchildren. Our individual "Field
of Dreams" is that portion of the world for which
we accept responsibility. The relationships we build
and sustain will be the true measure of who we are
and how we operate. If you build them (substantive
relationships); they will come. Invest
the energy in people and savor those heavenly moments
when your dreams come true.
Question: (E-191)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on June 15, 2005
"Racer's comments sound like a threat"
NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon after having been rear-ended,
causing his car to swerve out of control, knocking
him out of the race said to Tony Stewart: "All
I can say is that the next time Tony's holding me up,
it won't be very long for him to be out of my way." How
dangerous is a comment like that?
Response:
Threat of bodily harm, from competitors in automobile racing, can have legal
ramifications. Jeff Gordon has now threatened a colleague; on the record. Obviously,
his temper got the better of him and his reaction was inappropriate.
So, let's picture these two competitors in
a future race. Gordon bumps Stewart and one or more
cars crash causing a fatality. Jeff said he would get
him out of the way, and causing a crash is not an accident.
Intentionally causing a wreck at 200 miles per hour
might be classified as vehicular manslaughter, or even
premeditated murder. Jeff Gordon has set a disgusting
example.
Could Mr. Gordon be charged with murder because he
threatened to retaliate by getting the other person
out of his way? Unfortunately, sporting events, games
and entertainment are imitating life at its most gruesome
level - brutality and mayhem. Athletic competition,
at least early on, served to provide socially-acceptable
forms of controlled combat, avoiding blood and death.
Today, career-ending cheap shots in hockey are matched
in baseball with vicious slides into members of the
other team. Pitchers purposely hit batters. Intensity
becomes ferocity as frenzied fans devolve into modern-day "throw-backs" to
a time when citizens asked for more lions to eat Christians
in the coliseum. This acrimonious sporting atmosphere
smells of gladiators, fighting to the death. Violence,
in too many instances, has replaced finesse, professionalism,
skill and sportsmanship. If maturity is grace under
pressure, then Jeff Gordon (and lots of other high
profile, spoiled athletes) has failed to live up to
the best he could be.
So, what are the concerns raised by the Jeff Gordon
threat?
- Competition requires a level field.
- Playing by the rules, all the time, is expected.
- A sense of proportion needs to surround all sporting
events. Mass hysteria and mob scenes confirm the
immaturity of the culture that fosters and tolerates
such actions.
- Threats of violence are inappropriate in a civilized
society, including the world of sports competition,
especially when using a vehicle moving 200 miles
per hour.
- Professionals do not threaten one another - ever.
So, how might integrity-centered behavior be encouraged?
- Boycott events and products that promote hate,
hurt and mayhem.
- Support "performers" who are positive
role models, purchasing their products.
- Communicate to sporting leagues and associations
the kinds of behavior you approve for yourself, your
children and grandchildren.
- Cheer competence, sportsmanship and athletic skill.
Replace jeers and "booing" with deafening
silence for those who behave inappropriately.
Question: (E-192)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on June 22, 2005
"Patients must also be smart consumers"
How can Guidant Health Systems remain in business
while delivering pacemakers that kill people? What
can I do to make sure I don't die because of
a faulty product?
Response:
Guidant has a history of irresponsible leadership and inconsistent product
quality. This column addressed their malfeasance in July, 2003 when I wrote: Greed,
whether for power or money (or both), is at the heart of this problem. Compromising
health and life cannot be tolerated. Fortunately, such reckless endangerment
seems to be the exception. Most manufacturers and, especially the ones associated
with health care, test and monitor each product to guarantee both quality and
safety. Our society safeguards us with many agencies responsible for testing
products that affect our lives. Organizations that we have created and support
test, on our behalf, what we drive, wear, eat and utilize in all aspects of
our lives, specifically in areas related to health care. These processes are
overwhelmingly effective.
Problems with Guidant's popular heart defibrillator
have led federal regulators to start an inquiry into
whether the company violated a corporate integrity
agreement it signed in 2003. Indianapolis-based Guidant
had signed the integrity agreement after a former Guidant,
subsidiary, Endovascular Technologies Inc., pleaded
guilty to 10 felonies and paid $92.4 million to settle
criminal and civil charges in a case involving a device
meant to treat abdominal aortic aneurysms. The Justice
Department contended that Guidant covered up thousands
of Ancure incidents in which the delivery system of
the device had malfunctioned, including 12 deaths.
More recently, Guidant reported yet another malfunction
to the Food and Drug Administration, but it did not
inform patients and doctors for three years until physicians
at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, publicly
questioned the company's conduct. Guidant maintains
that the device is highly reliable. Under federal law,
a company must report any incident to the FDA in which
its medical device might have caused or contributed
to a death or serious injury, or if the malfunction
is likely to recur. Guidant's reputation erodes
confidence in the integrity of health care. This cannot
be allowed.
So, before accepting potentially-risky health treatment
recommendations:
- Ask questions. Get second opinions.
- Demand current information that confirms the quality
and reliability of any treatments, including technologies,
you elect.
- Utilize this toll-free hotline: 888-463-6332;
which will connect you with the Food and Drug Administration.
The FDA can also be reached online at: http://www.fda.gov/comments.html.
The FDA addresses many concerns about technology,
toxicology and health safety.
- Research current news regarding issues related
to medical devices and radiological health. Learn
what products and services are working well and which
ones are causing problems: http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/consumer/
Forward additional health hotline suggestions directly
to us - (info@brachercenter.com)
- so that we might pass along helpful resources and strengthen
the integrity of health care delivery. Restoring
confidence in health care's integrity is a must.
Letter to the Editor, published November
8, 2005:
When the Tylenol scare occurred years back, McNeil
Labs stepped up, admitted the problem, pulled the product
off the shelf and quickly communicated with customers.
The result was that Tylenol customers continued to
hold the company in high esteem and sales increased
rather than decreased.
This process was based on responsible management
with a high regard for its customers as well as its
own profitability. This proved that integrity matters.
I happened to see the June
22 "Integrity Matters" by
Jim Bracher. A reader asked a pertinent question: "What
can I do to make sure I don't die because of a faulty
product?" I was wondering the same thing.
The concept of integrity has its
roots in the relationship one has with family, friends
and, yes, especially with customers. Integrity does matter.
It is the cornerstone of trust. Will I trust a new device
from Guidant, if one is offered?
I am the CEO of a Strategy
Consulting firm that deals with corporate growth
and profitability. I advise companies on how to be "customer centric" as
a balance to internal financial/operational issues,
as well as being the not-so- proud owner of an implanted
Guidant cardiac defibrillator.
Your publication should be commended for printing
Bracher's column.
Pete Bogda, CEO, ABA Consulting Inc.
Dallas, Texas
Question: (E-193)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on June 29, 2005
"'Integrity' book theft proves message
needed"
Someone stole a copy of your book, Integrity
Matters, during business hours at our Coast
Gallery in Pebble Beach. Our "honor system" works,
most of the time. Sadly, integrity doesn't
seem to matter to everyone! Is there a moral to this
story?
Response:
Integrity matters and there is a moral to the story. Gary and Emma Koeppel
own Coast Gallery locations in Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Maui and Carmel and value
our book, Integrity Matters. They sell copies to their customers,
helping to expand the integrity conversation. Because of their efforts, more
individuals are learning that "Integrity-centered leadership is the only
reliable foundation for long-term success!" Now, we hear that a book thief
has violated decency and stolen integrity. Say it ain't so!
In May of 2004, we launched our book, Integrity Matters
, in bookstores and on Amazon.com. Simultaneously,
used copies of our brand-new book were advertised on
the internet. How could this be? Just about every publisher,
we learned, sends out hundreds of copies of new books
to newspapers, magazines and reviewers. Certain mailroom
employees recognize the packages, remove the books,
list them online and pocket profits.
So, what would cause an art gallery shopper surrounded
by expensive items to snitch Integrity Matters,
a $24.00 book about constructive behaviors? Is this
akin to hotel guests who steal Bibles provided, for
free, by Gideon International? Did this petty thief
need this particular book to develop a moral compass
in an all-too-turbulent world? Did this small time
crook lack the cash and simply turn to stealing out
of desperation? We will likely never know.
But, let's get back to the concern raised by
Gary and Emma Koeppel of Coast Galleries. Is there
a moral to this story? Yes. The problem is thievery
and the need to rebuild the architecture for the renewal
of integrity-centered leadership. In the meantime,
we need to figure out who sanctions stealing? Is it
a careless parent who bragged about cheating on taxes?
What do children absorb about honesty from family members
who sneak home logo towels and robes from hotels? What
values are being communicated when parents speed down
the highway and risk harm to self, family, friends
and strangers simply because no law officer is nearby?
Regardless of where and how individuals learn values;
this book thief provides an opportunity for a constructive
response. The integrity message needs to reach more
people, immediately. So, what organization should become
the "Gideon
Society" for integrity? It is time to expand the
integrity conversation, even if Integrity Matters,
the book, must be provided to an entire generation, for
free. The need is real and time is now. Who should be
the sponsor? Readers, please tell us.
Question: (E-194)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on July 6, 2005
"Police officers strengthen, protect
society"
Where are police officers when you need one? Don't
you think they spend too much of their time writing
speeding tickets instead of arresting real criminals?
Response:
Police work may be the most stressful job in the world. A policeman said:
"Every day when I leave home for headquarters, I kiss my wife good-bye,
aware that it may be for the last time."
17,000 law enforcement officers have been killed
in the line of duty since the United States was founded.
Law enforcement personnel risk their lives, even during "routine" traffic
stops. Officers writing tickets have been assaulted,
shot, led on high-speed chases and hit by passing traffic.
They never know when "routine" may turn
violent. Since 1994, 1,649 law enforcement officers
died in the line of duty. Immediately following the
September 11, 2001, terrorist attack on America, there
was a surge of support and respect for those who serve
as police, fire and emergency personnel. Such appreciation
is still needed, maybe now more than ever.
Excerpts from the Law Enforcement Code
of Ethics pinpoint integrity-centered
promises:
My fundamental duty is to serve mankind;
safeguard lives and property; protect the innocent
against deception, the weak against oppression
or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence
or disorder; and respect Constitutional rights...regarding
liberty, equality and justice.
I will keep my private life unsullied...constantly
mindful of the welfare of others.
With no compromise for crime and with
relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce
the law courteously and appropriately without fear
or favor, malice or ill will, never employing unnecessary
force or violence and never accepting gratuities.
I recognize the badge of my office as
the symbol of public faith, and I accept it as
a public trust to be held so long as I am true
to the ethics of the police service. I will constantly
strive to achieve these objectives and ideals,
dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession...law
enforcement.
Police officers support and strengthen society's
integrity while protecting the rights of individuals.
Misbehavior, whether in terms of violating traffic
laws, selling illegal drugs or robbing stores, requires
law enforcement energies. So, if it is more officers
that are required to maintain civilized behavior, being
fully staffed and available for even more monitoring,
then citizens must discover ways to finance additional
salaries. Raising taxes is one common approach. However,
if increased taxes are not attractive, then more members
of society must exercise greater self-restraint. It
should be common knowledge that individuals must operate
with integrity, a culture of compliance, or face increasing
government oversight, including disciplines and fines
handed out by law enforcement professionals.
In the meantime, pass along words of praise to law enforcement
professionals and to those in the media. Write letters.
Make calls. Send emails. Encourage integrity-centered
law enforcement by praising admirable behaviors.
Question: (E-195)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on November 9, 2005
"Maintain respect for religious differences"
As an ordained Christian minister, is it time to replace
public prayers that are so specific that they come
across as disrespectful, even judgmental?
Response:
Yes. However, before expanding on my answer, allow me to build a context for
my recommendation. As a management consultant, my professional responsibility
is to provide valuable counsel to individuals and organizations; helping clients
to function more effectively and profitably. Teaching powerful people to listen
attentively to all of their stakeholders, each of whom has a legitimate position,
and then behave graciously is a complex and demanding task. Always, my goal
is to exceed expectations and, then, as an entrepreneur and businessperson,
to be compensated appropriately.
Clients might be liberal or conservative and may have
come from diverse cultural, racial and religious groups.
However, what they all have hired us to provide is
our knowledge and experience. They pay us for our skills
in effectively identifying and developing leaders and
teams. Clients reward us and our consulting team for
what we know, not for what we think that we know. We
believe that progressive leaders appreciate how, and
how quickly, our minds work. Even so, there is a clear
separation between our personal preferences and our
professional competencies. We are not asked by our
Hindu clients to leave our faith to join theirs, nor
do we seek to convert those who hire us to accept our
religious practices. As a mentor taught me, years ago,
individuals who succeed go to work, at least in the
business world, to make money. How individuals choose
to use their wealth and live their cultural and religious
beliefs are separate issues. However, condemning differences
in style and belief are bordering on the irresponsible
in an era in which billions of individuals from around
the world are linked by an internet and united by the
desire to create a better and more peaceful world for
the next generation.
There is a need to share from the abundance that has
been created through successful and profitable business
transactions. So, to maintain our own balance between
self-interest (making money), and social responsibility
(protecting those who cannot protect themselves), we
have supported organizations that provide safety nets
for those at risk. When individuals seek assistance
from "service agencies" - whether
for food, housing or counsel to rid themselves of harmful
drugs and destructive behaviors -- it would be totally
inappropriate for them to be refused assistance for
racial, cultural or religious reasons. Graciousness
and compassion dictate serving all who have needs.
Serving on the board of a global religions organization,
tolerance and spiritual sensitivity are a must. Episcopal
Bishop William Swing, of San Francisco, who founded the
United Religions Initiative, convenes meetings with individuals
whose religious and cultural traditions span the globe.
He reminds participants that silence is one activity,
when built upon respect and receptivity; that does not
divide people. With the sound of a bell, Bishop Swing
invites those with whom he is meeting to reflect, in
silence, on mutual needs and issues, as fits with their
respective traditions. He concludes the respectful silence
with the second ringing of the bell. This approach can
become a way to celebrate similarities and integrate
differences; avoiding judgmental behaviors. So, before
a meal with individuals whose histories and traditions
might not be known or in a public gathering - the process
can be powerful. By suggesting, during the silence, that
individuals offer their personal thoughts and prayers,
no one is diminished and everyone is shown respect. Can
integrity reach a higher level? Probably not!
Question: (E-196)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on November 16, 2005
"World's complexities require careful
thought"
Television "news" has become a "show." Biased
reporting attracts those who demand support and justification
for what they already believe. Can this be a good thing?
Response:
No. When respectful give and take is replaced with caustic harangues, built
upon rigid principles, then constructive communication is lost. Today, litmus-tested
performers, wearing camera-friendly make-up, preach doctrinaire positions in
the name of news reporting. With biting sarcasm, they feverishly attack those
who challenge them. This is not news reporting, it is destructive entertainment.
Mindless party-line "sound-bites" weaken a society (now a world)
dependent upon mutual understanding, international business transactions and
civility in conflict resolution.
So, how did we get so far down this road of distrust
and intolerance? Individuals over 50 grew up, throughout
most of the United States, when many decisions had
already been made. Generally speaking, parents were
either Democrats or Republicans. Most adults purchased
one of three automobiles: Chevrolet, Ford or Dodge.
News came from three sources: morning or afternoon
newspapers (one, Republican, the other, Democrat);
radio commentators who were ex-newspaper veterans;
and, television broadcasters from NBC, CBS, or ABC.
People were Protestant, Catholic or Jewish. Families
and neighborhoods, even sections of the nation, had
their traditions, often perceived as somewhat mysterious
to outsiders. This was life, with little challenge
or change.
By contrast, today's world feels topsy-turvy.
Issues demanding understanding are far closer to home
than international terrorism, the collapse of Russian
communism, disease and starvation in Africa, the politics
of energy and fresh water or even complex international
monetary policies. The soul of society has been infected
with plummeting confidence in leaders, soaring rates
of teen pregnancy, drug abuse, divorce and criminal
activities among the powerful. Said the poet: "Oh,
the times, they are a' changin'." Political
perspectives are no longer dogmatically carried forward
by children. Choosing an automobile is complicated
by hundreds options. Try ordering a hot drink at an
upscale coffee shop!
Wise-appearing television newscasters from yester-year
were welcome guests in millions of homes because it
was assumed they would never say or do anything to
harm society. Today's airwaves are filled with "talking
heads" eagerly mouthing any perspective, loudly
and energetically, satisfying clamoring fans. Noisy
personal attacks have displaced the reasoned argument.
Insecure about what is true and thrashing about for
any sign of reassurance, these consistency-seekers
yearn for the same confidence from an earlier era.
Unsure of what is true or important; these adults lash
out with anger, impatience, rudeness and rigidity,
encouraging those in the media to reflect their unsettled
state.
The time is now to listen thoughtfully, especially to
conflicting opinions. Shouting down, or simply ignoring,
those who think and behave differently discourages openness
and trust. Civil discourse is the most intelligent pathway
to discourage demagoguery and build confidence. Integrity
demands graciousness, respect and discipline. Listening
is the key.
Question: (E-197)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on August 24, 2005
"Integrity a must when coaching youth
sports"
A Pennsylvania Little League coach of 8-year olds,
allegedly paid one of his players $25 to use a bat
to injure another member of their T-Ball team. The
27-year old coach didn't want the mentally-disabled
youngster to play and risk a loss. Is this an issue
of integrity or insanity?
Response:
Adults who behave this way have serious issues involving integrity, possibly
criminality and certainly maturity. Having recently attended a little league
game, we observed a coach who encouraged players. At the end of the game, when
his team lost, he mentioned that the other team simply played a little better
today. He then reminded everyone that there will be another game and that he
too will work harder to be better prepared.
His supportive approach reminded me of my favorite
Little League coach, Mr. Yonkers, who patiently taught
me and my buddies. After three losing seasons, under
Coach Yonkers, finally our team enjoyed a winning season.
Even way back then, a few coaches were jerks. But our
coach knew he was there to help us become better people,
as we were learning to pitch, catch and hit.
Every adult, coach, parent and fan is responsible
for exhibiting appropriate behaviors and leadership
with and for youth; all the time. As the "playoffs" begin,
please review a summary of The National Youth Sports
Coaches Associationand its Coaches' Code
of Ethics:
http://www.decatursports.com/articles/NYSCA.htm
As a coach --- I will:
- Place the emotional and physical
well-being of my players ahead of a personal desire
to win.
- Treat each player as an individual,
remembering the large range of emotional and physical
development for the same age group.
- Do my best to provide a safe
playing situation for my players.
- Promise to review and practice
the basic first aid principles needed to treat injuries
of my players.
- Do my best to organize practices
that are fun and challenging for all my players.
- Lead by example in demonstrating
fair play and sportsmanship to all my players
- Provide a sports environment
for my team that is free of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol,
and I will refrain from their use at all youth sports
events.
- Be knowledgeable in the rules
of each sport that I coach, and I will teach these
rules to my players.
- Use those coaching techniques
appropriate for each of the skills that I teach.
- Remember that I am a youth sports
coach, and that the game is for children and not
adults.
Measuring one's actions against a thoughtful
code of ethics; and making appropriate adjustments;
will build a stronger community. All age groups will
benefit. Behaving appropriately confirms that integrity
matters.
Question: (E-198)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on July 27, 2005
"An act of kindness will make your
day"
I am tired of reading about lying, murder and stealing.
Does anyone still do good deeds?
Response:
Illustrations abound confirming the goodness of people. First, graciousness
still pays dividends. On April 27, 2005, during heavy rain showers, a business
associate joined me for breakfast at the Wagon Wheel Restaurant in Carmel Valley.
Following a 90-minute business meeting, over breakfast, we exited the restaurant.
Not yet ready to dodge the raindrops, I waited while my friend rushed to his
car only to watch him return to the front door, speechless. Well, not exactly
in silence. He had left the lights on and his battery was dead. Having no jumper
cables in my car, learning he had none with him; the obvious answer was roadside
assistance. Assured he had the situation well in hand, I headed toward the
offices of the Bracher Center to deal with the day's challenges. Thirty minutes
later, the phone rang and it was the "dead battery" man, sounding
upbeat.
His "Good Samaritan" involved the owner-manager
of the restaurant. She suggested he not phone for assistance,
but, threw on her jacket, went out in the increasingly
heavy rainstorm, moved her vehicle which did have jumper
cables and made sure my friend's automobile started.
He thanked her, headed to his next appointment and
phoned me with the good news. Acts of kindness are
good to share. When he told me of his experience, he
made my day better and maybe my retelling it here will
make yours better. Graciousness improves lives. How
many more times will this gentleman and others (including
me) choose the Wagon Wheel Restaurant in Carmel Valley?
Yes, integrity pays, over and over.
The second example confirms that real wisdom is the
constructive use of energy. One evening a wise grandmother
told her grandson about a battle that goes on inside
people. She said, "Dear child, the battle is between
two 'wolves' inside us all. One is anger,
envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity,
guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride,
superiority, and ego. The other is joy, peace, love,
hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy,
generosity, truth, compassion and faith." The
grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked
his grandmother: "Which wolf wins?" The grandmother
replied, "The one you feed."
President Abraham Lincoln is given credit for this
observation: "After
the age of 40, individuals are responsible for their
own faces." Mr. Lincoln knew that who we are
and how we feel, on the inside, is what will show on
our faces. Over the years it adds up. Are you, in your
heart and soul, a giver or a taker? In my experience,
givers are more attractive as they get older. Since
we cannot control the years, we can manage our attitudes.
Question: (E-199)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on August 3, 2005
"Wells Fargo Bank's integrity in
question"
Federal regulators say Wells Fargo Bank jeopardized
the personal information of hundreds of thousands of
customers through a string of security breaches over
the past two years. Wells Fargo intends to profit from
the problem by offering the same customers whose confidential
information they allowed to be compromised, a chance
to pay $140 per year for information they can receive
free. Is this integrity at Wells Fargo?
Response:
With your question, you forwarded a column by David Lazarus of the San
Francisco Chronicle. On July 22, 2005, he questions the ethics of those
who lose credit information, whether from negligence or incompetence; and
then offer to these same 700,000 violated customers and others, for $12.99
per month, a credit monitoring service. This is gutsy, perhaps callous.
Ironically, these same customers can access identical information free,
three times per year, requesting a complimentary annual credit report, from
these organizations: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
Consumer advocates, Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, http://www.privacyrights.org a
San Diego non-profit offers valuable counsel. Their
July tip of the month: When Ordering Your Free Credit
Report, It's Still Better to Call Rather Than Order
Online. Disturbing is learning that 100 imposter domains
and 233 imposter sites are interfering with the federally-mandated
free credit report site. Some of these sites are showing
up in search engine results, sometimes as paid listings
that appear ahead of the official site.
To facilitate obtaining your current credit
report, Privacy Rights Clearinghouse suggests:
- When phoning the toll free number: 877-322-8228 for
your credit report, ask that only the last four digits
of your Social Security Number be displayed when
it is sent to you.
- If you use the toll free number above to access
your free credit report, be aware that if you have
a strong accent or a complex last name, the automated
phone system may not work.
- If you call for your report or have it mailed to
you, ensure that your credit report is mailed to
a secure mailbox.
- Know that you are not required to give out your
email address in order to obtain a federally mandated
free credit report.
- If you order a free annual credit report online,
take basic computer safety precautions. For example,
ensure that your computer is virus-free and don't
order your reports from a public computer or from
work.
Current credit information is important because
of the growing cottage industry called identify theft.
Preying upon individual's fears, to obtain a
current credit report, is not integrity, especially
when the information can be obtained for free. Short
term greed will not build viable business relationships.
Buyers, beware! Knowing what is available, for free,
expands the integrity conversation.
Question: (E-200)
published in Jim Bracher's Integrity
Matters newspaper column on August 10, 2005
"Integrity No. 1 rung on ladder to
success"
Other than lacking integrity, what other flaws do you observe, over and over,
in failed leaders?
Response:
Quoting successful business leader, Warren Buffett: "In evaluating
people, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence and
energy. And, if you don't have the first, the other two will
kill you." The foundation for building success and impact, over the
long haul, is integrity. Those who lack it, often fail, regardless of title
or task. Justifiable mistrust, a by-product of broken promises, erodes motivation
among mission-driven partners.
Three additional career killers are arrogance,
ignorance and incompetence. The constructive
side of these negative attributes can be described
as graciousness, attentiveness and diligence. Recently,
when meeting with a newly-appointed first-time chief
executive officer, she exhibited all three.
Her arrogance was exhibited by total
disrespect for the valuable time of those with whom
she worked. Schedules were ignored; causing those about
her to scurry to keep the people "down- line" informed
about her time-sensitive crises. Not one time did I
hear her say: "Thank you for your patience" or "I
am sorry to have made you wait." She demonstrates
that her position affords her entitlements, including
flagrant abuses related to time. She did not exhibit
graciousness.
CEO's are not expected to know all of the rules
of the road, immediately. However, not asking for help
is certain to sustain ignorance. Watching
this individual make a series of operational blunders
with current direct reports, not asking for their input,
in areas where she had little or no knowledge, made
clear that people were not important to her. Leaders
exude confidence that they are eager to share the spotlight
and learn from others; crediting them for their contributions.
Not being attentive, she lost valuable
opportunities to learn, encourage and motivate.
Topping off her mediocre leadership was incompetence.
Leaders always assume responsibility. To emphasize
this point, consider the comments made by Mr. Kenneth
Lay, CEO of Enron. He describes Enron's collapse
as something that surprised him, because he was a "hands-off" executive.
If he did not know what was happening, then Mr. Lay
should give back his salary and bonus. If he did know,
then he is accountable for indictments regarding malfeasance.
In the case of my recent encounter with a "wanna' be" leader,
blame was her game in an effort to make fame in her
own name. She will fail, long term. My father said
that those who do not learn will likely suffer. Diligence means
that CEO's own mistakes because that is what
leadership requires. Courage improves morale and increases
productivity. Employees recognize legitimate leadership.
Integrity requires intelligence, along with intensity,
sensitivity and follow-through. Those who do not possess
integrity-centered attributes should keep their resumes
current.
