If you've worked or lived in situations where corruption exists, it's interesting to see where and how those seeds of corruption or destruction began. There was a time in my life when I worked in a place where some corruption existed. Still today, I don't understand the extent of that corruption or where it really started, but as I think about it today, I believe the seeds of that corruption began when people didn't feel comfortable expressing their opinion or observations to leadership or each other. This discomfort resulted in a lack of transparency which then led to some making decisions and acting in ways that were questionable and perhaps, corrupt.
Also, when people did try to speak up, they were quickly quieted rather than taken seriously. Then rather than transparent communication, lots of side conversations and hushed negotiations became the mainstay of the organization. This was not good.
As I think back to this situation and my role in the situation, I realize that I was so entrenched in the organization, that it was difficult to see what was really happening. I tried to do what I could, but I didn't have the time, experience, understanding, or skill to act in ways that would have translated to better leadership and greater transparency. Sadly, as I look back, I see so much waste since often, those who were not good leaders, simply made decisions to promote or protect themselves rather than do the good work possible. Wasted work often translated to hired consultants who were friends rather than truly good hires or influences for the organization; new programs/hires that looked good, but were actually a waste of money/time; punitive, stress-producing actions towards those who spoke up; cronyism, and sloppy thoughtless work. On the other hand, there were examples of good work in the organization too.
As I think of this corruption, I am thinking of my own circles of work and connection now as well as our current government situations. A lack of honesty truly translates into corruption. When transparency is blocked or masked, corruption is seeded. Transparent, honest, open-minded speak and connections are essential when it comes to thwarting corruption.
Also, every employee in organizations have to be taken seriously. Employees should be encouraged to share their observations and thoughts, and then those observations and thoughts should be dealt with in respectful, honest ways. Employees won't always see things as they are, but that should be explained with facts, not manipulated with dishonesty.
In our own circles, when transparency begins to waver, we need to pay attention. When people start to become dishonest, you need to speak up sooner than later. If dishonesty persists, corruption will follow.
I will think more on this topic in time. Onward.
