Integrity Shouldn’t Cost Extra

Integrity shouldn’t cost extra.

But when it does, your whole team pays.

Twice this week, I’ve watched people compromise their image as a “nice guy” because something was more important to them.

The first wanted to stretch a supplier to save a few dollars. When they couldn’t, they turned sour, attacking the integrity of their supplier. Of course, all they really achieved was exposing the cost of their own (a few dollars).

The second wanted a refund on a product they’d bought years ago. When the terms of their purchase didn’t warrant one, they turned sour, blackmailing the manufacturer into getting what they wanted. Of course, all they really achieved was exposing the cost of their own integrity (the price of the product).

Integrity among professionals often carries a small sticker price. It costs them their relationships, reputation, and opportunity to serve people who don’t put their integrity on sale.

That opportunity remains with you, providing you can still demonstrate conduct that reflects that of those you wish to serve. Just don’t put your integrity on sale.