Integrity

Several years ago, I was interviewed by an MBA student about the core success value of a good leader. I immediately replied "integrity". Integrity has many attributes, e.g., honesty, trust, making consistent and fair decisions, etc.

This is the definition of integrity on dictionary.com:

in·teg·ri·ty Audio Help /ɪnˈtɛgrɪti/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[in-teg-ri-tee] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun
1. adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty.
2. the state of being whole, entire, or undiminished: to preserve the integrity of the empire.
3. a sound, unimpaired, or perfect condition: the integrity of a ship's hull.


Everything starts with integrity! Leaders without integrity might be able to achieve short term success, but not a long term sustainable and successful business.