The Journey
         A newsletter for Phi Theta Kappa chapter advisors, chapter officers, and regional officers.  

Leadership Lessons
From the Phi Theta Kappa Leadership Development Studies

Leadership and Ethics

Ethical behavior must include "character: a respect for self, and others; a willingness to sacrifice for the common good; a sense of civic responsibility; the relentless pursuit of truth; basic honesty; and an intolerance for anything less than adherence to the highest standards."

Ronald W. Roskens, president of the University of Nebraska

What do we mean by Leadership Ethics?

As a chapter leader, would you consider your conduct ethical?

Just about every organization has some type of code of ethics. Today, we hear about business ethics, media ethics, and family values. When it comes to applying ethics to leadership, we tend to look to so-called "great" men and women of history for guidance. We often link leadership ethics to some sort of heroic conduct. But, as explained by Ronald W. Roskens, president of the University of Nebraska, "true leadership is more than a matter of superhuman conduct under circumstances of extraordinary stress."

What Are Leadership Ethics?

In Unit Ten of the Phi Theta Kappa Leadership Development Studies text, Roskens focuses on ethical conduct in his article, "Ethical Leaders: The Wide and Easy Way." He points out that "ethics and ethical conduct are not simply principled behavior guided by a prescribed code." Although he supports the idea of having codes of ethics, Roskens states that ethical behavior is more than just knowing and following the standards of a profession.

Ethical behavior must include "character: a respect for self, and others; a willingness to sacrifice for the common good; a sense of civic responsibility; the relentless pursuit of truth; basic honesty; and an intolerance for anything less than adherence to the highest standards."

According to Roskens, true leaders have earned the respect and allegiance of others. "Ethical leaders discern that the fabric with which they work is a multi-hued tapestry, and that the individual threads are woven from value-laden materials." He adds that leaders' accomplishments are not just personal, but involve other people. When individuals serve, they apply their individual efforts in the pursuit of the common good.

The Ethical Chapter Leader

As a chapter leader, you must treat each individual as though he or she is the leader of tomorrow. By exposing your chapter members to leadership opportunities, you will instill the skills and perspectives necessary for the recognition, pursuit and advancement of excellence.

Good leaders know how to value the individual. As columnist Sydney Harris once wrote, "The good person loves people and uses things; the evil loves things, and uses people." Chapter members should feel that they are a valuable part of a team rather than just another face in the crowd.

Be open to sharing the spotlight of leadership with fellow officers and members. Ethical leaders do not let their egos get out of hand. They know how to shift the focus onto teamwork.

Don't be a fact hog. Share information with the rest of the chapter. Creating a successful chapter requires teamwork. Knowledge may provide a sense of power, but your chapter will not succeed if you do not share information.

It's a Matter of Honor

Do not participate in slandering other officers, members or your chapter advisors. If there is a problem, meet with the people involved and discuss it. Your fellow officers or members may be unaware of concerns you may have. Also, maintain an open line of communication with your chapter advisor. Your advisor is the chapter's main link to the college administration and Phi Theta Kappa's International Headquarters.

Consider having your chapter officer team sign an honor code. Phi Theta Kappa has developed an honor code for regional and international officers which is also being adopted by many chapter leaders. Establishing a code of conduct or ethics for your chapter officers can reduce confusion if ethical dilemmas arise.

Chapter officers need to set the example as ethical leaders. Encourage your chapter members to treat each other fairly and to develop character. Character is based on other people's perceptions of whether you are sincere, trustworthy and have their best interests at heart. Hopefully, your fellow officers and members will see you as a person who possesses character.

So, as you serve your chapter, strive for the common good. In the long run, not only will the chapter benefit, but you may find yourself growing, too.

Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society
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