The Competencies of Integrity

Abstract

The study explored the construction of integrity in a South African work context and from the viewpoint of business leaders (n=6, females = 2 males = 4). Three of the business leaders were managing directors, two senior executive officers and one senior manager. The types of business backgrounds included government, consulting, marketing, mining and construction. Data were gathered using ten in-depth interviews. Grounded theory data analysis yielded ten competencies related to integrity in the work place, including self-motivation, moral courage, self-discipline, consistency, honesty, fairness, diligence, responsibility, commitment, and trustworthiness. The competencies of integrity are clustered into intrapersonal, interpersonal and work orientated competencies.