Intentional Integrity: How Smart Companies Can Lead an Ethical Revolution by Robert Chesnut

In his book, “Intentional Integrity: How Smart Companies Can Lead an Ethical Revolution,” Robert Chesnut examines the importance of integrating integrity into a company’s core values and culture. He explains that integrity must be intentionally applied throughout a company, from the top down, to ensure ethical and nourishing decisions are made and followed through on. Chesnut uses case studies of real-life companies that have taken intentional steps towards operating with integrity as examples of how leaders can positively impact their companies.

Chesnut begins by discussing how ethical behavior and decisions make up the foundation of any successful business. He argues that it’s not enough to simply have the right ethical policies written down; these must become part of the regular atmosphere of the organization in order to ensure they’re followed. Chesnut emphasizes that an important first step in making an organization ethical is establishing clear, unambiguous values and mission. The mission and values become the filter through which all decisions are made.

Chesnut also focuses a chapter on the workforce and how it’s essential for employees to understand what’s expected of them when it comes to ethical behavior. He highlights the importance of educating employees on principles of integrity, connecting ethical business practices to the company’s mission, and having clear and enforceable policies. He addresses power dynamics, calling for leaders to recognize their actions have a greater weight and presentation on ethical decisions and choices. Ultimately, Chesnut recommends that companies bridge the divide between their values and their actual practice.

Next, Chesnut argues that accountability is key if a company is to stay true to its ethical standards. He highlights the need for an honest assessment of performance and mistakes when it comes to ethical dilemmas. Companies should strive to hold employees, leaders, and the company as a whole accountable for unethical decisions so that trust can be restored.

The last major chapter addresses how companies should become good corporate citizens as well. Chesnut stresses the importance of respecting labor laws, environmental regulations, and having a commitment to being a “good neighbor.” These must go hand in hand with business growth, encouraging trust and respect from external stakeholders.

Chesnut concludes with advice on how companies can actively pursue an ethical agenda. He offers practical advice, such as developing a code of ethics, appointing ethical action teams, and forming an ethics task force. Companies must prioritize listening to their employees, engaging in dialogue, and getting feedback from all stakeholders.

In “Intentional Integrity: How Smart Companies Can Lead an Ethical Revolution,” Robert Chesnut provides an in-depth look at how companies can ensure they are operating with unswerving integrity. He provides practical advice and case studies aimed at helping companies motivate ethical behavior. He argues for the importance of values, accountability, the workforce, corporate citizenship, and providing guidance on how to proactively lead an ethical revolution.