“In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence and energy. And if they do not have the first, the other two will kill you.” – Warren Buffett. What do you understand by this statement in the present-day scenario? Explain.
This statement emphasises the critical nature of integrity. Without integrity, intelligence and energy can be abused to the detriment of the firm or organisation. Without Integrity, intelligence and energy are worthless. Integrity is a person’s capacity to understand that there is no contradiction between his words and acts.
It is a fine line that separates genius from the thief. Both possess energy and intelligence. What distinguishes them is their integrity. If all of one’s energy and intelligence are not channelled into a single positive, ethical, and beneficent force, only calamity will result! With the highest level of intelligence and energy, combined with the best intentions and honesty, the proper recipe for just outcomes is created.
“To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity.”
-Douglas Adams
As Susan Hathfield so eloquently described it, integrity is one of the core traits that employers seek in their employees. It is the defining characteristic of someone who upholds solid moral and ethical standards at work. A person of integrity demonstrates his or her values in all of his or her interactions with coworkers, customers, and stakeholders.
Integrity is founded on honesty and trust. Honesty and truthfulness are also fundamental tenets of an individual with integrity. Individuals that exhibit integrity attract others because they are trustworthy and dependable. They are principled and can be relied upon to conduct themselves honorably even when no one is looking.
Individuals that operate with Integrity are those who never compromise their integrity and always adhere to their convictions. They consistently offer high-quality performance, outperform stakeholders’ expectations, and keep their commitments. Those that behave with integrity will consistently deliver the necessary level of performance regardless of whether they are observed or not, and can be relied upon to do so. Integrity is about doing the right thing and paying extra attention to the small and insignificant deeds that leave a lasting impact. Those who cannot be relied upon at all times cannot be relied upon at any moment.
Gaining the trust of others takes time and perseverance. One act of betrayal, no matter how tiny, can permanently damage that trust. The theft of a single rupee remains a theft. A person of integrity will not compromise his ideals regardless of the size of the stakes.