2014 Showed Character Is as Important as Talent

Description

Character has often been described as the difference-maker in sports, business and life. The importance of character in the workplace, especially leader character, has proved all too easy to forget in recent years. Events in 2014 involving Toronto Mayor Rob Ford, radio broadcaster Jian Ghomeshi and NFL running back Ray Rice helped demonstrate the important role that character plays in the success and failure of organizations. As this article states, effective performance requires competencies and commitment. But without the support of good character, the strengths that come from having competencies and commitment can be seriously undermined, as shown by the 2008 financial crisis. While anyone can cross the line of acceptable behaviour, leaders cannot expect forgiveness. Ensuring good character in leaders and top performers is not about reputational risk, as ignoring bad behaviour is always bad business in the long run, especially when the business in question involves role models. The long-term benefits of a healthy work environment with happy, productive employees are far greater than anything a star talent with questionable judgement can provide.