Charles Handy article on the importance of accountability and personal responsibility, even in what seem to be trivial matters and offenses, in order to maintain the respect and admiration of clients, workers, and employers. Handy begins the article discussing how a former prospective attorney-general for Bill Clinton, Zoe Baird, had resigned for knowingly employing two illegal immigrants to assist her in her home, and her indifferent attitude toward the deed she had committed, which indicated that she had failed the judgment test. He proceeds to use her as an example of when trust and respect are broken, and contrasts Baird’s acts and subsequent resignation with what would normally happen in U.S. industries, where resignation would be an admission of guilt and is therefore resisted as much as possible. Handy then ponders, however, if resignation is better than remaining in a position when one’s reputation has been compromised, and the importance of issuing quick and sincere apologies when an individual or organization has committed a transgression. He goes on to state that, as of late, too many responses have been similar to Zoe Baird’s, and bemoans the passing of a sense of honor and obligation in society. Although leadership positions come with a great deal of public scrutiny and high standards, Handy closes the article concluding that such attitudes are necessary in order to maintain the integrity of high offices and leadership positions in society, as they establish the tone for the rest of the culture.
Handy, Charles B Willey, Bee Clinton, Bill, 1946- Baird, Zoë E., 1952- British Airways Saturn automobile Democracy Integrity General Motors automobiles Japan Resignation Honesty Apologies Illegal immigrants Institute of Directors
Source
Charles Handy article on the importance of accountability and personal responsibility, even in what seem to be trivial matters and offenses, in order to maintain the respect and admiration of clients, workers, and employers, 1993; Charles Handy Papers; Box 20, Folder 7; 1 page
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