This document contains three unrelated sections. The first section is a quote attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson about living an impactful life and leaving the world better than you found it. The second section discusses how transparency from an organization encourages self-regulation and accountability by aligning communication with ethics. The third section provides advice on developing personal credibility, maintaining good work habits, professional conduct, and strong relationships.

1. To laugh often and love much; to win the respect of intelligent persons and the affection of children; to earn the approbation of honest citizens and to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give of one’s self; to leave the world a little bit better; whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exultation; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, this is to have succeeded. - Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-1882 info from: Wilson, Ogden 2004

2. Why Transparency?

3. By revealing the organization’s motives, the organization becomes accountable to the public. Transparency then becomes self-regulating, encouraging organizations to choose only practices they could justify publicly. By being transparent, the organization puts its credibility on the line by aligning its communication with its ethics.

4. Personal Ethics Make your ethical decisions now Develop empathy Take time to think Call it what it is Every action & decision has an ethical component Establish a freedom fund

6. Personal Credibility & Trustworthiness Avoid Over-Promising Set Parameters Emphasize Disclosure Align with Public Interest Emphasize Substance Avoid Impropriety No Quick Answers Keep Learning Take the High Road Look at Long-Term Interests Never Hide from Media When in Doubt, Don’t

7. Work Habits & Job Performance Know your strengths & weaknesses Prioritize tasks, allocate time & work within constraints Be concerned with results & successes Be goal-oriented Pay attention to detail Deliver on time Be absolutely dependable

8. Personal Conduct Always act & dress professionally Observe procedures Work within power structures Be ethical Don’t compromise standards Work toward balance in your life Cultivate other interests & relationships

9. Know people’s names Be a mentor Keep a sense of humor Don’t hold grudges Stay out of office politics Human Relations Be personable & likable Treat people as equals Respect admins Win loyalty & dedication

10. Keep Etiquette in Mind