How does an ethical leader manage their followers?

An ethical leader manages their followers by holding everyone to the same standard, which promotes fairness, accountability, and trust within the team. This approach ensures that all team members are aware of the expectations placed upon them and fosters a culture of integrity and respect. When leaders apply uniform standards, they not only set a clear framework for performance but also contribute to an equitable environment where everyone feels valued and treated justly.

By promoting this consistency, ethical leaders help to reduce favoritism and bias, which can lead to morale issues among staff. Employees are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they see that all members of the team are held to the same expectations. This practice also encourages a sense of shared responsibility, as everyone is working toward the same goals under a common set of guidelines.

In contrast, options that suggest allowing individual exceptions, maintaining a strict hierarchy, or encouraging competition among staff can undermine team cohesion, lead to resentment, and create an environment of distrust. Each of these approaches may contribute to short-term gains but ultimately can damage relationships and the overall effectiveness of the team in the long run.