top of page

Leadership Next Level

next level

"The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching.“


In a world that is becoming faster, more complex, and more unpredictable, the pressure on CEOs is growing. Decisions have to be made in real time, and stakeholder expectations are more diverse than ever. And yet, in this very area of tension, one thing becomes clear: leadership without ethics is not leadership – it is merely management.


Why ethics in leadership is crucial today

Ethics is a stable inner compass that helps leaders make clear decisions in uncertain situations and know what is right and responsible. Customers, employees, and investors no longer rely solely on performance – they expect attitude.


Especially in times of crisis, it becomes clear what really matters: transparency, fairness, responsibility. And all of this begins not in external actions, but within a leader – in his mindset.


Mindset first: your values shape your decisions

Ethical leadership begins with the question: what really drives me?

Your mindset is the filter through which you perceive the world and act accordingly. CEOs who want to lead ethically need to be clearly aware of their own principles. Because only those who know what they stand for can stand by it when things get uncomfortable.


3 mindset principles of ethical leadership


1. Integrity: Showing attitude – even in difficult times

Ethical leadership means doing the right thing, even when it is risky. As described in the quote above, integrity is particularly evident when no one is watching – or when there is opposition.


Ask yourself if there are decisions where you would be willing to betray your values out of fear of the consequences. And if so, what can you do today to remain steadfast in such situations and uphold your values?


2. Sense of responsibility: For people, not just KPIs

Ethical leadership recognizes that people are not resources, but co-creators in the company. When you understand leadership as service to others, you lay the foundation for a work environment in which trust and mutual respect grow.


Ask yourself: Do your decisions serve short-term success – or the long-term well-being of your team? Consider how your behavior creates an environment in which trust and cooperation flourish.


3. Living transparency: More trust, better cooperation

Honest communication is essential for bringing values to life in a company. When you, as CEO, speak openly about goals, challenges, and mistakes, it strengthens your credibility—and that has a positive effect on the entire organization.

What would happen if you were 10% more transparent in your communication today?


Self-leadership is the foundation

Before you can lead others ethically, you must lead yourself. It's about pausing regularly and asking yourself:


  • Where do I stand?

  • Which values are non-negotiable for me?

  • Do I live these values – even under pressure?


A practical tool is the “Ethical Decision Journal”. After difficult decisions, write down:


  • Which values did I consider?

  • Was I true to myself?

  • What could I have done differently?


This conscious reflection sharpens your ethical compass in the long term.


Ethics is not a limitation – it is Leadership Next Level

Ethical leadership does not mean always acting perfectly. It means leading consciously, responsibly, and based on values – even in ambiguous situations. It is this attitude that creates trust. And trust is the capital that no IPO can replace.


Anyone who wants to lead as a CEO today must deliver more than just numbers. They must show attitude – and live it. Are you ready for "Next Level Leadership"?

bottom of page