The document discusses the concepts of ethics, ethical leadership, and their importance. It defines ethics as moral principles that govern behavior and distinguish between right and wrong. Leadership is defined as a social influence process that maximizes others' efforts toward achieving a goal. Ethical leadership is directed by respect for ethical values and human dignity. The principles of ethical leadership include serving others and doing what is right. Practicing ethical leadership encourages ethical decision-making and enhances reputation, productivity, and morale. Characteristics of ethical leaders are humility, concern for others, honesty, and courage; characteristics of unethical leaders are arrogance, self-interest, deception, and blame-shifting.

1. ETHICAL LEADERSHIP AND ITS
IMPORTANCE
Kamara, Abdulsalam
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2. To help participants understand
• The basic concept of ethics and ethical leadership
• Principles of ethical leadership
• How to practice ethical leadership
• The importance of ethical leadership
• Characteristics of ethical and unethical leadership
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3. What is ethics
• Ethics is a moral principle that governs a person or group behavior.
It is also a branch of knowledge that deals with a behavioral code of
what is good or bad.
• It helps us to act in a just and fair way and for the common good. It
helps us to know what is right or wrong.
• “Ethics is about human excellence’’ Professor Mele.
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4. What is leadership
“Leadership is not about titles, positions or
flowcharts.
It's about one life influencing another.”
John C. Maxwell
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5. • Leadership is a process of social influence, which
maximizes the efforts of others, towards the
achievement of a goal (Kruse, 2013).
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6. Ethical leadership
• Ethical leadership is leadership directed by respect for ethical beliefs and
values and for the dignity and rights of others. It is believed that ethical
leadership depends on ethical behaviors.
• Linda Thornton (2013) posited that getting employees to act ethically in
the workplace starts at the top.
• A lot of businesses have failed because the leaders have put aside ethical
values and put personal interest.
• To lead a team with character and integrity, you must set an example.
You’re the leader, and your team looks to you. Leading by example is the
best way to communicate ethical values to your employees.
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7. Principles of ethical leadership
(Northhouse, 2013)
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8. How to practice ethical leadership
• “I do what the law/rule says.”
The first statement reflects obeying the law.
• “I do what I believe is right.”
We use these values to decide whether or not to obey the
law—and how to act when there are no laws constraining us.
• “I encourage others to follow my lead.”
The third statement refers to each individual’s obligation to be an ethical
leader—in his or her own life or family
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9. The importance of ethical leadership
• It reduces social vices in society
Vices such as corruption, prostitution, arm robbery will decrease.
• It helps individuals to make good decisions.
Individuals are able to take better decisions that can help society develop.
• It enhances an individual’s reputation.
Ethical leadership ensures that the reputation of individual is enhanced in
the community.
• It helps to increase productivity.
Ethical leadership will increase productivity and individual retention.
Higher levels of productivity improves efficiency in society.
• It helps boost the morale and loyalty of people.
The morale and loyalty of people is boosted by the practice of ethical
leadership in society.
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10. Characteristics of ethical and unethical leadership
The Ethical Leader
• Is humble
• Is concern for the greater good
• Is honest and straightforward
• Takes responsibility
• Shows respect for each individual
• Serves others
• Shows courage to stand up for
what is right
The Unethical Leader
• Is arrogant and self-serving
• Excessively promotes self-
interest
• Practices deception
• Breaches agreements
• Shifts blame to others
• Neglect followers development
• Lacks courage to confront unjust
acts
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