Two dimensions of ethical leadership

To be a true ethical leader requires being both a moral person and a moral manager. Personal morality is clearly important. But research shows that ethical leadership demands moving beyond private morality and assuming the role of moral manager.

Moral Person
(leader’s behavior)

Moral Manager
(directs followers' behavior)


Traits
--honesty, integrity, trust

Behaviors
--openness, concern for people, personal morality

Decision making
--values-based, fair

Role modeling
--visible ethical action

Rewards/Discipline
--holds people accountable for ethical conduct

Communicating
--conveys an “ethics/values” message

Source: “Ethical Leadership: Creating an Ethical Culture,” PowerPoint presentation by Linda K. Trevino, 2005, Smeal College of Business, Pennsylvania State University.

For information on SDUSD’s leadership development initiative, contact Director, Sam Wong at swong@sandi.net.

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