It is both possible and important for people to take their values into the workplace with them. If one of those values is integrity, there are a number of ways to demonstrate it at work. 

Integrity combines a number of different qualities into an overall commitment to honesty and adherence to ethical values. People who have integrity are responsible, helpful, respectful, and patient. They are fair-minded and willing to admit when they are wrong. They also work hard and do their best in whatever task they are engaged in. Integrity is important for all employees, but it is vital for leaders, who must demonstrate integrity in order to get buy-in from their team. 

Showing integrity at work can make an employee an excellent role model for others. Examples of how to show it include being on time, arriving ready to get to work, being conscientious about company policies, showing respect for company property and the property of coworkers, being accountable for errors, and remaining respectful toward others even when conflict arises.

 

A person with integrity would also take steps to ensure that those values are practiced throughout the workplace. For example, on discovering that coworkers are gossiping about another colleague’s poor performance, the employee with integrity might suggest that they discuss it with the colleague themselves and with their supervisor. This offers frustrated coworkers a potential solution while also making an effort to stop scapegoating and ostracizing at work. Another example of workplace integrity would be acknowledging a colleague’s assistance in completing a project.

Having integrity at work is not always easy. Sometimes it can mean working harder to find a solution that will work better in the long run than a quick fix or insisting on honesty even when it is difficult. However, over the long run, demonstrating integrity will create a better workplace and will garner respect from others. 

Being communicative and civil, keeping emotions in check, responding appropriately to unethical behavior, and taking responsibility are all important in maintaining integrity at work. These behaviors can set an important example for others and create a more ethical workplace.