Latest news with #integrity
Entrepreneur
2 days ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Want a Reputation People Trust? Start With These 4 Simple Habits
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. Your business reputation is more than a feel-good factor — it's a strategic asset that can propel or derail your growth. One misstep, like a scathing review or a breach of trust, can erode customer confidence, weaken your search engine rankings and stifle referrals. Conversely, a reputation rooted in integrity can attract loyal clients, inspire your team and fuel organic expansion. As a business owner, actively shaping a trustworthy reputation isn't just wise — it's essential for long term success. Here's how to build a reputation that opens doors and creates opportunities. Related: The One Mistake Is Putting Your Brand Reputation at Risk — and Most Startups Still Make It Anchor your business with core values A strong reputation starts with values that guide every decision. At my digital marketing agency, our commitment to integrity shapes how we operate, even when it demands tough choices. For instance, we once ended a contract with a high-paying client who consistently disrespected our team, violating our principle of fostering a positive workplace. The financial hit was significant, but the decision strengthened team trust and reinforced our culture. By defining clear values — such as respect, honesty or excellence — and consistently upholding them, you signal to clients and employees that your business stands for something enduring, laying the foundation for a respected reputation. Rise above challenges with integrity Encounters with dishonesty, like a client dodging payment or a partner undermining your business, test your commitment to integrity. Early in my career, I connected a client with a contact who later took their business without acknowledgment. Instead of reacting with anger, I chose to move forward, trusting that new opportunities would emerge. This approach, rooted in an abundance mindset, preserves your professionalism and safeguards your reputation. When faced with betrayal or conflict, prioritize your values over short-term wins. By taking the high road, you earn respect from peers and clients, enhancing your standing as a principled leader. Related: How to Better Manage Your Brand's Reputation in the Digital Age Harness the power of referrals Referrals are a powerful driver of reputation, turning satisfied clients into advocates who bring in new business. Delivering exceptional service to every client maximizes the chance they'll recommend you to others. Equally important is referring prospects to trusted colleagues when their needs don't align with your expertise. For example, directing a client to a better-suited provider may forgo immediate revenue, but it builds goodwill and often leads to reciprocal referrals. Cultivate a network of reliable partners to create a mutually beneficial referral system. This approach not only strengthens your reputation as an honest business but also fosters a cycle of trust that fuels growth. Elevate your reputation with reviews Online reviews shape how customers and search engines perceive your business, directly impacting your SEO and credibility. Proactively encourage satisfied clients to leave detailed Google reviews, aiming for at least two per month to maintain a robust online presence. Providing a direct link simplifies the process, and asking clients to describe their experience incorporates keywords that boost search visibility. Respond to every review — express gratitude for positive feedback and address negative ones with a sincere apology and a commitment to make things right. This engagement demonstrates your dedication to customer satisfaction, reinforcing a reputation for responsiveness and care. Commit to consistent integrity A stellar reputation isn't built overnight — it's the result of consistent, value-driven actions across all facets of your business. From treating clients with respect to fostering a supportive team environment, every interaction contributes to how others perceive you. Upholding integrity, even when it requires sacrifices like turning away a lucrative but toxic client, creates a ripple effect of trust. This trust translates into loyal customers, motivated employees and a stronger online presence, all of which drive opportunities. To start, choose one actionable step — requesting a client review, refining your referral process or clarifying your values with your team — and implement it this week. Take action to build your legacy Your reputation is a living asset that grows with every principled decision. Begin by integrating these strategies into your daily operations: define your values, handle conflicts with grace, nurture referrals and prioritize reviews. These steps don't require a massive overhaul, but their impact compounds over time, positioning your business as a trusted leader. Ready to break through your revenue ceiling? Join us at Level Up, a conference for ambitious business leaders to unlock new growth opportunities.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
13 Signs You Have A Beautiful Heart And Mind
We all strive to be better people and to have a positive impact on those around us. Sometimes, it's tough to see the beauty in ourselves, especially when life gets chaotic. But often, the most meaningful signs of beauty aren't in the mirror; they're in how we think, feel, and treat others. Here are 13 signs that your heart and mind are as beautiful as they come. Remember, recognizing these traits in yourself is the first step to nurturing them further. Kindness is a simple yet powerful act that makes the world a better place. You make an effort to be kind, not just when it's convenient but as a way of life. Studies, like those conducted by Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, show that kindness boosts happiness for both the giver and the receiver. You understand that small acts, like holding the door or offering a compliment, can have a big impact. This approach to life fosters a more compassionate community, one good deed at a time. Your kindness isn't performative; it comes from a genuine desire to help others. Whether it's offering a listening ear or lending a helping hand, you do so without expecting anything in return. People feel comfortable around you because they sense your authentic compassion. This openness encourages others to be kind as well, creating a ripple effect. In a world that often feels harsh, your kindness is a beacon of hope and warmth. Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. For you, it's not about seeking approval or praise; it's about staying true to your values. You understand that honesty and trustworthiness are the foundation of meaningful relationships. This consistency makes you a reliable friend, partner, and colleague. Your word carries weight because people know you mean what you say. Your integrity guides your decisions, big and small, and it's evident in how you conduct yourself. You're not swayed by shortcuts or tempted by easy wins if they compromise your principles. This steadfastness earns you respect and admiration from those around you. When challenges arise, you have a clear compass to guide you, rooted in your core beliefs. Ultimately, your integrity shapes a life of authenticity and purpose. You understand that life is richer when shared, so you prioritize meaningful relationships. Social psychologist Dr. Susan Pinker highlights in her research that strong social ties can improve health and longevity. You make time for friends and family, even when life gets busy. Whether it's a quick call or a long catch-up over coffee, you nurture these connections diligently. This effort makes your relationships deeper and more rewarding. You're not just there for the good times; you're also a pillar of support during tough moments. When someone needs advice or a shoulder to cry on, you're the one they call. This availability fosters a mutual trust that strengthens your bonds. You believe in the power of a connected community and work to enhance it. Your value of connection enriches not just your life but the lives of those around you. Empathy isn't just about understanding someone's feelings; it's about truly feeling them. When a friend shares their troubles, you find yourself sharing their journey, not in a nosy way but with genuine concern. It's more than just listening; it's an emotional response that comes from a place of sincerity. According to Dr. Daniel Goleman, who has written extensively on emotional intelligence, empathy is a key component that binds human connections. It's this ability that helps you connect with others on a deeper level, making you a comforting presence. Your empathy extends beyond close friends and family to strangers and even animals. You find yourself moved by stories of hardship and eager to help, even if it's in small ways. This trait leads you to volunteer, donate, or advocate for causes that matter. It's part of how you see the world—not just as a place with problems but as a place where you can make a difference. Your willingness to step into others' shoes makes you someone people turn to in times of need. Being open-minded means welcoming new ideas, even when they challenge your existing beliefs. You listen to people whose opinions differ from yours without jumping to conclusions. This doesn't mean you agree with everything you hear, but you're willing to consider different perspectives. You find this approach expands your worldview and often leads to personal growth. It's not just about tolerance; it's about the willingness to learn and adapt. In a world that's increasingly polarized, your open-mindedness is refreshing. You understand that not every issue is black and white, and you're comfortable with the gray areas. It allows you to engage in meaningful conversations without resorting to arguments. This trait makes you a valued friend and colleague because people know you'll give them a fair hearing. Ultimately, your open-minded nature encourages a more inclusive environment around you. Gratitude goes beyond saying "thank you"—it's a whole mindset. You make it a point to acknowledge the good in your life, even on difficult days. Practicing gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, as noted by psychologist Robert Emmons in his studies on the subject. You're aware that focusing on what you have rather than what you lack creates a more positive outlook. This habit not only enhances your happiness but also boosts your resilience when facing challenges. You keep a gratitude journal or take moments throughout your day to reflect on your blessings. Whether it's a sunny day, a warm meal, or a kind word from a friend, you don't take these moments for granted. This approach helps you stay grounded and appreciative, which spills over into how you treat others. Your gratitude is contagious; people around you start noticing the little joys in life, too. It's a simple but profound way to bring more positivity into the world. Life throws curveballs, but you've got the strength to handle them. Resilience isn't about never falling; it's about getting back up, time and again. You don't break when faced with adversity; instead, you bend and adapt. This ability to recover quickly from setbacks is a defining feature of your character. It's not just that you bounce back; you often come back stronger. Your resilience stems from understanding that failure is part of growth. You view challenges as opportunities to learn, rather than obstacles to avoid. When things don't go as planned, you reflect, regroup, and try again with renewed vigor. This tenacity doesn't go unnoticed; it inspires those around you to face their own struggles with courage. Your ability to persevere is a testament to your inner strength and fortitude. Life is ever-changing, and you're comfortable with that reality. Instead of fearing the unknown, you meet change with curiosity and openness. You understand that growth often requires leaving your comfort zone. This adaptability allows you to navigate life's twists and turns with grace. Change isn't something you resist; it's something you embrace as part of your journey. Your willingness to adapt means you're often ahead of the curve. You're open to new experiences, whether it's learning a new skill or meeting new people. This openness keeps your life dynamic and full of possibilities. You find that with each change, you learn something valuable about yourself. While others may feel stagnant, your embrace of change keeps you moving forward. Having a balanced perspective means seeing both sides of a situation before making a judgment. You weigh options carefully and consider various viewpoints, seeking the middle ground when possible. This thoughtful approach helps you make decisions that are fair and well-informed. People trust your judgment because they know you're not quick to jump to conclusions. Your rationality and fairness are traits that others admire and respect. Your balanced nature extends to how you handle your emotions. You acknowledge your feelings but don't let them cloud your judgment. This emotional intelligence helps you navigate both personal and professional challenges effectively. When conflicts arise, you act as a mediator, helping others find common ground. Your ability to maintain perspective makes you a calming presence in any situation. You recognize that to take care of others, you first need to take care of yourself. Self-care is not selfish; it's a necessity for a balanced life. You make time for activities that recharge your spirit, whether it's reading a book, meditating, or going for a walk. This dedication to self-care ensures you're at your best when supporting others. You understand that a healthy mind and body are essential for a fulfilling life. Your approach to self-care is holistic, focusing on mental, emotional, and physical well-being. You set boundaries to protect your time and energy, understanding their importance. This self-awareness allows you to be more present and engaged in your relationships. People notice your vibrancy and often seek advice on how to achieve their own balance. Your focus on self-care demonstrates the importance of nurturing oneself to nurture others effectively. Diversity is more than a buzzword for you; it's a value you live by. You seek out and celebrate differences, knowing they enrich your life. This appreciation for diverse perspectives fosters a more inclusive environment in your personal and professional circles. You understand that people from different backgrounds have unique insights and experiences. This openness leads to deeper understanding and better collaboration. Your curiosity about other cultures and viewpoints broadens your horizons. You engage in conversations that challenge your assumptions and help you grow. This appreciation for diversity is evident in your friendships, media consumption, and even travel choices. You're aware that embracing diversity isn't just morally right; it makes life more interesting. Your inclusive mindset sets an example for others to follow. Patience is a virtue you've cultivated over time. You know that good things often take time, and you're willing to wait for them. This patience extends to how you deal with others, offering them understanding and time to express themselves. You don't rush to judgment or decision, allowing situations to unfold naturally. This calm approach is reassuring to those around you, making you a steady presence in their lives. Your patience isn't passive; it's an active practice that requires strength and perseverance. You understand that some achievements and solutions require time to develop. This perspective helps you remain optimistic and focused on long-term goals. When others feel frustrated or impatient, your calm demeanor helps refocus their energy constructively. Your patience is a testament to your maturity and wisdom, qualities that others deeply appreciate. Your actions and words motivate those around you to be their best selves. You lead by example, showing others how to live with integrity, kindness, and resilience. It's not about telling people what to do but demonstrating a way of life that others want to emulate. This inspirational quality doesn't go unnoticed; you often receive feedback about the impact you've had on others' lives. You're a role model not because you strive to be but because you naturally embody values that many people admire. When you share your stories and experiences, you do so with authenticity and humility. You don't pretend to have all the answers, but you share what you've learned along the way. This openness makes people feel connected and motivated to embark on their paths of growth. Your influence isn't about changing others; it's about empowering them to find their way. You inspire not through grand gestures but through everyday actions that reflect your beautiful heart and mind.
News.com.au
4 days ago
- Sport
- News.com.au
Former Hall Of Famer's DQ Quashed On Appeal
Queensland Racing Appeals Panel (QRAP) was scathing of Queensland greyhound racing's integrity arm QRIC (Queensland Racing Integrity Commission) when overturning a further 10-year disqualification issued to former Hall of Fame greyhound trainer and convicted live baiter Ron Ball. On Tuesday, QRAP chair Kerry O'Brien AM handed down the decision that the QRIC charge be 'set aside' making the determination that 'no charge be laid' against Ball citing procedural omissions, the unacceptably long and unexplained delay and misleading communications as the reasons for decision. Ball, who prepared the great Flying Amy during his six-decade training career, fronted QRAP last month in a bid to have the additional 10-year disqualification quashed. The 83-year-old former trainer was handed a life-ban for live baiting in 2015 before the penalty was sensationally slashed to 10-years on appeal, opening the door for a potential return to the industry this year. But in the lead up to the 2015 penalty expiring, QRIC officials again disqualified Ball for another 10-years, after he admitted to being on the property and handling greyhounds for his partner and then licenced person Serena Lawrance back in October 2022. 'Ball's undisputed account was that he was at his partner Ms. Lawrence's property on 9 October 2022 as a 'one-off' incident because she was unwell, and he merely hosed out kennels for unregistered dogs,' the appeal decision stated. QRAP concluded that Ball's alleged rule breach was at the 'very lower end of the scale of seriousness' and the proceedings at the Stewards' inquiry were 'fundamentally flawed'. 'The Applicant (Ball) was never given the opportunity to present argument in relation to any of the options set out in GAR 169(3), let alone to respond to any properly formulated charge,' the appeal decision read. 'He was afforded no opportunity to respond by way of plea, or to make any submissions in relation to penalty.' QRAP's decision leaves the door open to Ball now reapplying for his licence which he became eligible to do in May 2025.
Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Malay Mail
New border agency chief vows zero tolerance for smuggling, eyes upgrade to entry point facilities
SEPANG, July 8 — The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) may introduce stricter recruitment and termination procedures if any of its officers are found to be involved in smuggling activities. AKPS newly appointed director-general, Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain, said his first challenge is to build a healthy and properly functioning organisation. 'I emphasised the importance of upholding a culture of integrity. When we consolidate multiple responsibilities, it naturally leads to broader powers and with that increased power, a person becomes more exposed to unhealthy temptations and opportunities. 'I have been very frank about this with all the officers earlier. Personally, I will not compromise on this,' he told reporters after his first visit at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 following his appointment last week. 'I may propose more stringent procedures for recruitment and termination if anyone is found to be involved in smuggling activities,' he added. As part of his phase one plan, Mohd Shuhaily said he intends to upgrade the agency's facilities to meet international standards. 'We have been entrusted with 22 entry points in the first phase, and that is why we are here on the ground, to truly assess how we can empower our officers, not just in terms of SOPs, but also the facilities, as you saw earlier. 'These are the facilities that the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department (Maqis) has, which are shared with Perhilitan, for an international entry point of this scale. 'I believe it is my responsibility to ensure that these facilities reflect the level of international standards and image that the government aims to project,' he said. Dressed in an all-dark olive green outfit and navy blue shoes, Mohd Shuhaily walked around with his entourage, spending about an hour at the security checkpoints in KLIA Terminal 1, including the immigration counters. He was seen speaking with AKPS officers on duty about operations and facilities. Mohd Shuhaily was appointed as AKPS director-general for a two-year term, effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027. He previously served as Police Attaché in Washington, United States, from 2010 to 2013 and was appointed Director of the Criminal Investigation Department at Bukit Aman on August 15, 2023.
National Post
5 days ago
- Politics
- National Post
CBC host resigns, saying he could not continue at public broadcaster 'with integrity'
A national CBC host announced his resignation from the public broadcaster Monday in a letter alleging he could not continue to work there 'with integrity.' Article content Travis Dhanraj describes leaving the network where the veteran journalist once hosted his own show. Article content 'I am stepping down not by choice, but because the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has made it impossible for me to continue my work with integrity,' he wrote. Article content Article content 'After years of service — most recently as the host of Canada Tonight: With Travis Dhanraj — I have been systematically sidelined, retaliated against, and denied the editorial access and institutional support necessary to fulfill my public service role.' Article content Article content 'When I joined CBC, I did so with a clear understanding of its mandate and a belief in its importance to Canadian democracy,' he wrote. Article content 'I was told I would be 'a bold voice in journalism.' I took that role seriously. I worked to elevate underrepresented stories, expand political balance, and uphold the journalistic values Canadians expect from their public broadcaster.' But, according to Dhanraj, 'what happens behind the scenes at CBC too often contradicts what's shown to the public.' Article content He accused the public broadcaster of 'performative diversity, tokenism, a system designed to elevate certain voices and diminish others.' Article content Article content Dhanraj's lawyer, Kathryn Marshall, said Monday that the CBC didn't want him booking 'Conservative voices' on his show. Article content Article content 'It turned out, to Travis' surprise, there was a strong editorial direction that he was supposed to promote,' Marshall said. Article content 'CBC, when they hired him, thought that they were getting someone who would espouse a certain world view,' Marshall said. 'I think they looked at him and they looked at the colour of his skin and they made some assumptions.' Article content Marshall is weighing making a complaint to the Canadian Human Rights Commission about her client's treatment at the CBC. Article content His allegations would include discrimination, reprisal and harassment, she said. Article content Dhanraj said he 'was repeatedly denied access to key newsmakers. Internal booking and editorial protocols were weaponized to create structural barriers for some while empowering others—particularly a small circle of senior Ottawa-based journalists.' Article content Dhanraj said when he 'questioned these imbalances,' he was 'met with silence, resistance, and eventually, retaliation. I was fighting for balance and accused of being on a 'crusade.'' Article content His show, according to Dhanraj, was rebranded. 'My name removed. My access curtailed. My medical leave was whispered about in the newsroom.' Article content Dhanraj claims he got in hot water over his April 2024 post on the social media platform now dubbed X about how the top CBC honcho at the time declined an interview request to discuss new budget funding for the public broadcaster. Article content Dhanraj said he 'was presented with (a non-disclosure agreement) tied to an investigation about a tweet about then CBC President Catherine Tait. It was designed not to protect privacy, but to sign away my voice. When I refused, I was further marginalized.' Article content Marshall said that 'CBC wanted him to sign an NDA in exchange for his job.' Article content Dhanraj went on leave in July 2024 and returned to full-time hours last December, she said. Article content 'Within basically the first week of his return he was immediately retaliated against by CBC for not signing the NDA,' Marshall said. Article content 'He was, at that point, permanently removed as the host of Canada Tonight, and his salary got slashed, and it was evident at that point that he had no future or career at the CBC.' Article content According to Dhanraj, 'these were not isolated actions. They were part of a pattern that sent a clear message: fall in line or be removed. I stayed as long as I could, but CBC leadership left me with no reasonable path forward.' Article content That's 'taken a real toll — on my health, my career, and my trust in an institution I once believed I could help reform from within,' Dhanraj wrote. 'But the greater harm is to the public: a broadcaster that no longer lives up to its mandate, a culture that resists accountability, and a system that punishes those who dare to challenge it.' Article content The CBC rejected Dhanraj's claims. Article content 'This morning Travis Dhanraj, a unionized employee of CBC/Radio-Canada who is currently on leave, sent internal notes making serious allegations. While we are limited in what we can say in response due to privacy and confidentiality considerations, CBC categorically rejects the accusations made about CBC News, our staff and management,' Kerry Kelly, who speaks for the public broadcaster, said in an email. Article content Article content Dhanraj's show was announced in late 2023, hit the airwaves in early 2024 and was done within the year. Article content 'Travis's engaging curiosity and incredible range of experience allows him to translate complex stories into personal terms and help audiences make sense of the news, which will be key as Canada Tonight sharpens its focus on stories that matter at home and make a difference in this country,' CBC executive Andree Lau said in a statement at the time. Article content
