The Transparency of Integrity

The Transparency of Integrity
By Ivan D. Butts
NAPS National President

Hello, my NAPS brothers and sisters. I come to you this November unlike my normal Thanksgiving column heading into the Christmas season to talk to you about integrity. Looking back, my very first column in The Postal Supervisor over 18 years ago was on this same subject.

Merriam-Webster defines integrity as “1: firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values: incorruptibility, 2: an unimpaired condition: soundness, 3: the quality or state of being complete or undivided: completeness.” Integrity calls us as supervisors, managers and other managerial personnel, including postmasters, to be the very best version of ourselves as we lead employees in this mission of delivering America’s mail.

We have and continue to be called to this level of accountability in the face of, sometimes literally, higher-levels leaders who crave accolades, kudos and NPA scores. Or they may just not want to be on the radar more than demanding, under threat of your job, that you surrender your integrity to their will.

Dealing with pressure from supervisors or executives to do the wrong thing can be really challenging. Here are some strategies you might consider:

  • Document everything—Keep a record of communications and decisions. This can protect you if you need to escalate an issue.
  • Clarify your values—Reflect on your own values and ethical standards. This can help you more clearly articulate your concerns.
  • Communicate openly—If you feel safe doing so, express your concerns to your supervisor. Focus on the potential consequences of the actions they are suggesting.
  • Seek support—Talk to trusted colleagues or mentors who may have faced similar situations. They can offer advice or even back you up, if needed.
  • Escalate when necessary—If the pressure continues and you believe it’s seriously unethical, consider escalating the issue to higher management or the appropriate channels.
  • Know your rights—Familiarize yourself with the policies on ethics and whistleblowing. This knowledge can empower you to take action.
  • Consider long-term implications—Think about how the decision might affect your career and the organization’s reputation in the long run.
  • Look for alternatives—If possible, suggest alternative solutions that align with ethical practices and the company’s goals.

Remember, it’s important to prioritize your integrity and wellbeing in these situations.

There is one USPS ELM policy reference we must never forget if we are in situations where demands are made to do the wrong thing:

665.15 Obedience to Orders

“Employees must obey the instructions of their supervisors. If an employee has reason to question the propriety of a supervisor’s order, the individual must nevertheless carry out the order and may immediately file a protest in writing to the official in charge of the installation or may appeal through official channels.”

For supervisors, managers and other managerial personnel, including postmasters, “may” means
“must” if you want to maintain your integrity in the face of leadership who demands you to give up your integrity for their personal desires—not in your career’s or family’s best interest, no matter how much they threaten you.

The official channel of the USPS OIG is https://hotlineform.uspsoig.gov/en-US/Hotline. Always remember: Documentation is key.

In solidarity …