Rule 18: Take the High Ground and Never Give it Up

Overview

SNAPSHOT

Are ethics an essential element of long-term success?

Yes: 98 percent

No: 2 percent

Unsurprisingly, a supermajority of invincible executives say that ethical conduct is a critical element of their success. They have to say it. But do they really believe that the good guy finishes first? The answer is no. Everyone with whom I discussed the issue agreed that unscrupulous people can go very far in the business world.

But, in order to achieve "invincible" status, you must remain ethical. The reason is simple: as soon as you cross the line into unethical territory, even for just a moment, you are forever vulnerable to a career-ending turn of events. This vulnerability can manifest itself in terms of criminal liability, bad press, or a reputation-damaging lawsuit—you never know until it hits. By definition, therefore, you lose your invincibility the moment you cross the ethical line.

Those who conduct themselves unethically may reach dizzying levels of success, but they will always be looking over their shoulders. That paranoia manifests itself in the way they treat customers, clients, and coworkers. It hurts their careers even if the wrongdoing is never exposed. By contrast, those who stay within the bounds of professional ethics feel no such vulnerability and can conduct their affairs with self-confidence.