Hello, my name is Dede Nyansapo. I am an entrepreneur who also participates in Accra’s burgeoning gig economy as a driver. My love for meeting fascinating people and my curiosity about how they think usually places me in the midst of some very entertaining conversations. Invariably, these conversations lead to some key learnings that may be useful to anyone on their business journey.
Episode 22: A conversation about integrity
The other day, I had the pleasure of driving James and his 13-year-old son, Kwadwo. James, a busy businessman, was dropping off Kwadwo at his mother’s house after spending the weekend together. As I dutifully navigated the bustling streets of Accra, I overheard James sharing some profound advice with Kwadwo about the importance of integrity in business. The conversation was not only enlightening but also a testament to the values that can shape a successful and fulfilling career.
Here’s how their dialogue unfolded:
Dad: You know, Kwadwo, there’s something I’ve been meaning to talk to you about. It’s about integrity and how important it is in business.
Kwadwo: Integrity? Why now, Dad? Did something happen at work?
Dad: Not exactly. But I realised that it’s something you should understand, especially as you start thinking about your future. Integrity is one of the most crucial elements for running a successful business.
Kwadwo: Why is it so important? I mean, can’t people just make money without being completely honest all the time?
Dad: That’s a good question. In the short term, yes, some people do make money without integrity. But those gains are often temporary. In the long run, integrity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful business.
Kwadwo: How does integrity build trust, though?
Dad: When you’re honest and consistent in your actions and words, people know they can rely on you. Customers trust businesses that stand by their promises. Employees are more loyal when they see their leaders acting with integrity. Investors feel safer putting their money into businesses that operate ethically.
Kwadwo: But what if someone is really good at pretending to be honest? Can they still get away with it?
Dad: Some might, for a while. But it’s hard to keep up a facade forever. Eventually, the truth comes out. People notice inconsistencies. And once trust is broken, it’s incredibly difficult to rebuild. That’s why true integrity is about being genuinely honest, not just pretending to be.
Kwadwo: So, if someone lies or cheats, it will always come back to haunt them?
Dad: Almost always, yes. And even if they don’t get caught, living a lie takes a toll on a person’s conscience. It can cause stress, anxiety, and a host of other problems. It’s much better to be truthful and transparent.
Kwadwo: Can you give me an example from your own experience?
Dad: Haha…. You always want it personalised. Sure. I remember a time early in my career when I was tempted to take a shortcut. We were bidding for a big contract, and a competitor’s proposal somehow ended up on my desk. I could have used that information to undercut them and secure the deal.
Kwadwo: Scandalous!!….Did you?
Dad: No. I shredded the document and focused on improving our own proposal. We didn’t win that contract, but I slept well knowing I had done the right thing. A few years later, that same competitor merged with us. Imagine the awkwardness and mistrust if I had cheated.
Kwadwo: Wow. That must have been tough. But what about in big companies? Do CEOs really care about integrity?
Dad: Many do. Look at companies with long-term success like Apple, Microsoft, or even local businesses that have been around for decades. They thrive because they have built a reputation for reliability and honesty. On the other hand, companies involved in scandals often suffer huge losses or go out of business entirely.
Kwadwo: I see. So, integrity is also about thinking long-term, right?
Dad: Exactly. It’s about considering the long-term impact of your actions on your reputation, relationships, and overall success. It’s not always the easiest path, but it’s the most rewarding one in the end.
Kwadwo: But what if doing the right thing means losing money or a big opportunity?
Dad: Sometimes that happens. But consider the bigger picture. Losing one deal is better than losing the trust of your clients or damaging your company’s reputation. Besides, when you act with integrity, you attract partners, customers, and employees who value honesty. That’s a powerful advantage in the business world.
Kwadwo: I guess it’s like how I wouldn’t want to be friends with someone who lies to me.
Dad: Exactly. Business relationships are no different. People want to work with those they can trust.
Kwadwo: What about if you make a mistake? Does that ruin your integrity?
Dad: Everyone makes mistakes, Kwadwo. What matters is how you handle them. Admitting your mistakes, taking responsibility, and making things right are all part of integrity. People respect honesty, even when things go wrong.
Kwadwo: Have you ever had to admit a big mistake?
Dad: I have. There was a time when we made a significant error on a project. It cost our client a lot of money. I could have made excuses, but instead, I called them, explained what happened, and offered to make up for it. They were upset, but they appreciated our honesty and eventually gave us more work because they knew we wouldn’t hide things from them.
Kwadwo: So, it’s not just about being honest when things are good but also when they’re bad?
Dad: Precisely. Integrity means being honest and ethical all the time, even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard.
Kwadwo: I get it now. But how do you teach integrity to employees?
Dad: By setting an example. Leaders need to demonstrate integrity in their actions every day. Clear policies and open communication also help. Rewarding ethical behavior and addressing unethical actions immediately is crucial. Employees will follow the lead of their leaders.
Kwadwo: Like how you always tell me to be honest and do the right thing, even when no one’s watching?
Dad: Exactly like that. Integrity is a habit. It’s built through consistent, honest actions over time.
Kwadwo: Can integrity really change a company’s culture?
Dad: Absolutely. A company’s culture reflects the values of its leaders. When leaders prioritize integrity, it becomes ingrained in the company’s DNA. It affects everything from decision-making to customer service. A strong culture of integrity attracts top talent and loyal customers.
Kwadwo: So, it’s like a superpower for businesses?
Dad: You could say that. It’s a powerful force that can drive success, create a positive work environment, and build lasting relationships.
Kwadwo: What if someone doesn’t believe in integrity? Can they still succeed?
Dad: They might, for a while. But their success will likely be unstable and short-lived. Without integrity, they’ll eventually face the consequences of their actions. And even if they don’t, they’ll miss out on the deeper satisfaction and respect that comes from running a business with integrity.
Kwadwo: I think I understand now. It’s not just about making money, but about doing it in a way that you can be proud of.
Dad: Exactly, Kwadwo. Success isn’t just measured by financial gains. It’s also about the impact you have on others, the relationships you build, and the legacy you leave behind.
Kwadwo: Thanks, Dad. I’ll remember that. It makes a lot of sense now.
Dad: I’m glad, son. It’s an important lesson that will serve you well in whatever you choose to do in life.
(I start to slow down as we approach their destination.)
Kwadwo: Looks like we’re almost there.
Dad: Yes, we are. Remember, Kwadwo, integrity is the foundation of not just business, but life. Hold on to it tightly.
Kwadwo: I will, Dad. Thanks for the talk.
Dad: Anytime, son. Anytime.
