Ethics: Character Before Culture

Last week, I had the privilege of spending the day with credit union professionals, delving into the profound topic of ethics. As our discussions unfolded, a fundamental truth emerged: culture is not a product of leadership's design but a reflection of the character of the individuals within the organization. At the heart of this character lies our personal morals, shaping our every decision and action.

Creating a culture is not a task that can be accomplished through mere intention; it is a collective emergence when individual morals converge towards a shared, higher goal. This is why the foundation of any ethical culture must be laid upon the bedrock of an organization's core values, uniting us in a common purpose and identity.

Just as the Ten Commandments emerged carved in stone, an organization's values must also be set in an unshakable foundation. Without these guiding principles, any attempt at fostering an ethical culture becomes like building on shifting sands. These values are the cornerstone and nothing meaningful can be built without them.

I learned this as a cadet at the United States Air Force Academy, where we followed the honor code, "I will not lie, cheat, or steal, nor tolerate among us anyone who does." When we got commissioned and entered the military as soldiers, we next learned the Code of U.S. Fighting Force, which served as an ethics guide and a U.S. Department of Defense directive consisting of six articles for members of the United States Armed Forces.

As Booker T. Washington wisely said, "A lie doesn't become truth, wrong doesn't become right, and evil doesn't become good, just because it's accepted by a majority." This quote resonates powerfully in today's world, where many may seek to normalize behavior that runs counter to timeless truths.

For organizations striving to uphold ethics, it's vital to remember that ethics is not a popularity contest but a steadfast commitment to what is right. By rooting ourselves in moral character, we ensure that our culture remains strong, honest, and aligned with the greater good.

To uphold an ethical culture, it is imperative that your code of conduct is not just a set of unspoken rules but a tangible, written document. Share it, promote it, and ensure it is a living, breathing part of your organization. Discuss it regularly, reflect upon it in decision-making processes, and most importantly, live it out in every interaction and choice. This is the path to ensuring that ethics are not just an ideal but a practice embraced by all.