The Ethical Frame
It All Begins Here
What is the Ethical Frame?
“Ethical leadership involves leaders and managers making decisions based on the right thing to do for the common good, not just based on what is best for themselves or for the bottom line” (Kirk, 2024). The Ethical frame is a culmination of Bolman and Deal’s Four Frames of Leadership. To be an ethical leader, one must understand how each of the frames can shape the organization that they lead.
For example, a leader in the marketing world may employ a stronger use of the Symbolic frame in order to emphasize and encourage employees to take pride in their roles and creativity. On the other hand, a leader in the physical operations/manufacturing world may employ a stronger use of the Structural frame to maintain order and clear guidelines for reporting within their field, to keep employees safe. The Ethical frame guides leaders in developing a holistic view on what is best for the common good, not just financially, or for public image.
Reflection
The Ethical Frame is the most important frame for any organization, because it is the holistic view on how each organization should be managed. Every organization and structure is unique, and the Ethical frame celebrates these qualities by empowering leaders to make decisions for the common good. As a new leader in the corporate world, I am still learning the ropes on how each frame fits into my own organization, so the Ethical Frame is a fantastic tool for learning how to make the best decisions for the entire team instead of on a different success measurement. As I continue to grow, the Ethical frame will be used in order to reflect the common values of the employees and company that I work within. Trader Joe’s uses this frame quite well, with a solid mix of each of the four frames to create the culture and reporting strategies that are currently used within the organization.
Reference
Kirk, V. (2024). What is Ethical Leadership and Why is it Important?. Harvard Division of Continuing Education- Professional & Executive Development. https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-ethical-leadership-and-why-is-it-important/