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To Be Honest
Book

To Be Honest

Lead with the Power of Truth, Justice and Purpose

Ron A. Carucci
Kogan Page, 2021
First Edition: 2021

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Editorial Rating

9

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Applicable
  • Concrete Examples

Recommendation

Organizational and leadership development expert Ron Carucci believes truth, justice and accountability are in short supply. In response, he offers a simple but profound formula for boosting corporate credibility. He outlines how to mold a corporate culture of honesty, integrity and inclusiveness. Carucci concedes that the process is demanding, and it will require you to confront uncomfortable issues. However, if you execute it well, you’ll gain a purpose-driven, high-performing organization that prizes truth and accountability.

Summary

Everyone searches for purpose, meaning and truth.

In the summer of 2019, 181 members of the Business Roundtable, a group of CEOs from America’s leading organizations, amended its statement of purpose for corporations. In the new amendment, the CEOs agreed to:

  • Strive for exceptional customer service.
  • Support employees through monetary and training initiatives.
  • Practice honesty and integrity with suppliers.
  • Partner with surrounding communities.
  • Deliver value for stakeholders.

Business Europe, an advocacy association representing 35 European countries, adopted a similar approach that year, emphasizing “prosperity, people and planet.” Recent dramatic events underscore the importance of these objectives. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, many businesses have demonstrated heightened empathy and understanding toward their workers, customers and communities.

In the United States, George Floyd’s murder and the civil unrest that followed prompted companies to pledge to address racial injustice. Whether they follow through is still an open question. Public skepticism continues...

About the Author

Ron A. Carucci is co-founder and managing partner of the executive leadership consulting firm Navalent. He has written or co-written eight books, and contributes to Harvard Business Review and Forbes.

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