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The dictionary gives a simple definition of integrity: the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that you refuse to change.1 Integrity is moral uprightness. It is a personal choice to hold one's self to consistent standards.2 How important is integrity in the workplace? This may not be a subject that you give much thought in your daily life. The intention of this article is to trigger you to think about integrity and what it means to you in the workplace.
Ethically, integrity is regarded as the honesty and truthfulness or accuracy of one's actions. It stands in opposition to hypocrisy. Judging with the standards of integrity involves regarding internal consistency as a virtue. As such, one may judge that others "have integrity" to the extent that they act according to the values, beliefs and principles they claim to hold.
Honesty is the cornerstone of integrity. Honesty is much more than telling the truth; it is demonstrated in our communication and our actions. We often do not say what we really think in order to keep the peace. Agreeing with something that is against your moral values is not honesty. Being honest in your communication can be done in a professional manner. Saying "With all due respect, I do not agree with your solution and I would be willing to discuss it further," demonstrates your true feelings when there could be major controversy. When honesty is required in meetings, committees or official capacity, your honest communication often helps confirm your values. Often people "cave" on important issues to avoid conflict and harbor resentment later.
Over the course of an eight- or 12-hour workday, there are numerous ways to demonstrate honesty. How does your employer evaluate your integrity? How do your coworkers see you? We all can demonstrate our integrity daily in our work life and our personal lives.
In the medical field, honesty can make the difference in the outcome of a patient's treatment. As a laboratory technician, your work is detailed and requires many steps with checks and balances along the way. Did you follow every step? Did you follow protocol every step of the way?...