I have been watching the news with my normal amazement as the saga of Congressman Weiner unfolds. As this story was developing, it was immediately apparent that he was mishandling the media by continually lying to them – and by extension – to his constituents. Evidently, he hasn’t learned from those involved with scandals before him that the best tactic is to admit the wrong doing and apologize for the indiscretions. Recently, Congressman Chris Lee from Buffalo resigned as soon as it was revealed that he was emailing “shirtless” pictures of himself to a woman who ultimately forwarded his correspondence to a gossip website, after recognizing Lee for who he was and not the “unmarried 39-year-old lobbyist” he portrayed himself to be (he’s 46 and married… and a congressman). Sadly, it seems Congressman Wiener is intent on making a fool of himself, his family and his office.
As a business leader, I observe situations such as these and attempt to ascertain a take away or lesson learned. Aside from the obvious….don’t send electronic pictures of yourself in your birthday suit to anyone… the lesson here for me is that as leaders, this is yet another reminder that the best way to lead is by example, and that the public generally still wants our leaders to be men and women who emulate a virtuous ideal both in public and in private.
We have our families, colleagues, people who work for us, our clients and many people who we come in contact with in our communities every day – all watching everything we do. People who are fortunate enough to lead learn how to conduct themselves through the eyes of those observing our actions. Our ability to earn respect is developed through their observations of our conduct, not through our written or spoken word. If we want our organizations to be held accountable to strong business ethics and – yes – morals, we must demonstrate that at the top.
As my grandmother always said, “Actions speak louder than words” …….in volumes.
Bill
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