Ethical Leadership in the performing arts

As leaders in the business world, we are faced with complex ethical dilemmas on a daily basis. It is all too easy to use the law as a crutch to justify uncomfortable decisions, but as a seasoned executive, I can tell you that simply being legal is not the same as being right.

The law is a baseline standard that protects society, but it is not always aligned with our personal values and beliefs. For example, it may be legal to use certain chemicals in the production of goods, but is it ethical to do so if those chemicals are harmful to the environment and the people who use the products?

In these situations, it is important for companies to go beyond what is legally required and consider the ethical implications of their actions. This means taking a step back and evaluating the impact of our decisions on all stakeholders, including employees, customers, suppliers, and the community at large.

In the performing arts industry one of the biggest challenges of ethical leadership is that it often requires courage. It may mean standing up to industry norms and making decisions that may not be popular or immediately profitable. Or it could mean that you potentially loose funding from key donors. Personally, I believe, that the last point is the main contributor for the lack of courage. But, it is important to remember that our actions today will shape the future of the performing arts industry and the world we live in for generations to come. Many leaders act from a victim perspective. "There is nothing I can do", " I won't be able to change anything", "It's not my responsibility to change anything. I am here to uphold traditions". I have heard it , seen it and even participated.

As leaders in the performing arts, it is our responsibility to set higher standards for ethical conduct within our organizations. This means leading by example, promoting open and honest communication, and creating a culture of integrity and, especially, transparency.

For decades , it was and still is ok, to move artist's into a powerless position. Do as you are told, fit into the system and if you are not, you are out. If the state of the arts are a health thermometer of society, than we have work to do.

Stop waiting for any outside circumstances to change. Look within. Dissect how much room you are allowing for unethical leadership practices to continue. Have these conversations with your artists, with your board and within your leadership team. The power to ignite and lead change is in your own hands. A business can only grow as much as the leaders are willing to grow themselves.

Do the right thing.

Start being an ethical Leader.