Defining Workplace Integrity: What it is and Why it’s Vital

Do you want to be seen as trustworthy? Perhaps you want people to feel comfortable around you or come to you for advice and leadership. 

The answer lies in your integrity. But what does integrity truly look like in the workplace? 

What Does Integrity Mean in the Workplace? 

You may have heard the term going around before, but what exactly does it mean? 

Integrity drives people to do the right thing with their words, actions and beliefs. That means you should act with honesty even when no one is looking! 

Think back to a time when you’ve admired someone at work. But what was it about them that earned your respect? Often, it’s their strong sense of integrity that makes them truly admirable. Most companies want team members like this because they are seen as trustworthy, reliable and dependable.  

Honesty and integrity go hand-in-hand in the workplace, forming the bedrock of a strong organisational culture. But what’s the difference between them?  

Honesty involves being truthful in all communication. This means providing accurate information, admitting mistakes, and ensuring that your actions align with your words. 

On the other hand, integrity is about consistently upholding ethical principles, regardless of the situation or pressure. It’s not just about doing the right thing when it’s easy, but also when it’s difficult.  

This kind of belief is embedded in most people, as outlined in a Zipdo 2024 education report, “70% of employees think that being ethical at work is just as important as their job performance.”  

Maintaining integrity in your workplace 

Building and maintaining integrity in the workplace doesn’t just spawn out of anywhere. It’s something you must work on slowly and consistently.  

Here are some daily practices you can do to uphold integrity in your workplace: 

Avoiding conflicts of interest: To uphold integrity, steer clear of situations where your personal interests might clash with your company or colleagues. 

1. Be honest: Honesty is a crucial aspect of integrity, but it’s important to balance it with professionalism. In the workplace, this means being truthful while also considering the context and the impact of your words. Ensure that your honesty is delivered respectfully, in a way that is constructive and considerate of others. This approach not only upholds your integrity but also fosters a positive and supportive work environment.  
2. Admit mistakes: Everyone slips once in a while, maybe even on a daily basis. Have you ever mistakenly lost your keys? Forgot your lunch? Or even called the wrong client? Mistakes allow us to learn from the past and give us an opportunity to grow. So don’t be silent when you have made a mistake, instead own up to those mistakes to develop in your role. 
3. Respect confidentiality: When someone shares private information with you, it’s a sign of trust, and it’s important to honour that trust by keeping their information confidential. This means avoiding gossip or spreading rumours, especially if doing so could harm others. Maintaining confidentiality not only preserves your integrity but also protects the well-being of those involved, ensuring that no one is hurt or adversely affected by the disclosure of sensitive information. 
4. Be impartial: While it’s natural to have close work buddies, it’s essential to remain objective in your professional interactions. Ensure that your decisions are not influenced by personal biases or relationships, and strive to include everyone fairly. Avoid excluding others based on favouritism, as impartiality fosters a more inclusive and equitable workplace for all team members. 
5. Seek feedback: Arrogance can undermine a positive work environment, so it’s important to remain humble. Regularly seek feedback from peers and supervisors, as this not only helps you improve your ethical conduct but also fosters personal and professional growth. By being open to constructive criticism, you demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and show that you value the perspectives of others, which can lead to stronger relationships and greater development in your career. 

The Benefits of Demonstrating Integrity in the Workplace 

Demonstrating integrity in the workplace not only strengthens your reputation but also fosters a positive work environment. When you consistently act with integrity, you build trust with your colleagues, managers, and clients. This trust can lead to greater collaboration, more meaningful professional relationships, and increased opportunities for career advancement.  

Changes to uphold integrity in the company

In a world where every action can impact your career and shape your company’s reputation, integrity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a game changer. As we navigate the complexities of today’s market, it’s clear: integrity isn’t just about doing the right thing when it’s convenient; it’s about steadfastly upholding ethical principles in every situation. 

If you’re looking to take the next step in your career and find a role that aligns with your values, reach out to our team of specialised consultants today. We are here to help you discover your next opportunity.