What is the key to success as a professional?
Introduction
I have been in professional partnerships of all shapes and sizes for nearly 40 years. I have also sat on a number of boards both in accountancy firms and in the public and charity sectors. As a forensic accountant I work alongside lawyers, other accountants and barristers. So I have been reflecting on what are the key attributes to success as a professional whether in accountancy, law or other professions.
I have reached a view that there is one key attribute for success as a professional which is guaranteed to deliver success as an individual and for the professional’s team. Where the professional is a leader in the business this attribute is absolutely key to the long-term success and survival of their organisation. That single attribute is integrity.
Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that you refuse to change.
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is looking” - C.S.Lewis
Why do I think integrity is the single key factor in building a successful career as a professional and a leader in a sustainable professional services firm?
Acting with integrity as a professional means:
So how does a lack of integrity manifest?
In essence a lack of integrity is where a professional’s actions and words are not aligned with ethical and moral principles. It manifests as dishonesty, inconsistency, moral cowardice and a lack of accountability. Professional leaders who fail to act with integrity are potentially jeopardizing not only their career but also the long-term health of their organisation. A single incidence of dishonest behaviour can quickly snowball into a thread of events which can be disastrous for financial success, brand reputation and ultimately may be the catalyst to corporate failure. Some of the biggest corporate scandals resulting from breaches in integrity and ethics include Enron, Volkswagen, Leman Brothers and BP. However, there are plenty of examples of smaller corporations, charities and professional firms which have failed as a result of dishonesty and failings by their Boards to lead with integrity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I believe integrity is the single key to success as a professional both in a personal capacity and as a leader. There are other attributes that can be learnt such as technical skills and business development but these must be underwritten by a strong moral compass for long term success.
Getting in Touch
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Email: fiona@fhmforensic.co.uk
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