By Daryl J. Delabbio
“Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing.”
~ Albert Schweitzer
In 1968, during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, protestors were abundant. The Vietnam escalation was becoming a disaster. The protesters chanted “the whole world is watching.” As leaders in local government, it is important to understand that “the whole world is watching us.” Specific to our profession, your governing body is watching, your direct reports and employees are watching, your neighbors, citizens, and other stakeholders are watching. A leader—whether s/he knows it, likes it, or wants to—shapes the perceptions everyone has about the organization you lead. Good or bad, people’s perceptions of organizations are greatly impacted by the behaviors, attitudes, and character of its leadership. As a result, it is essential that all leaders understand that they represent their organizations 24/7, 365 days a year by modeling excellence, high standards of ethics, and dedication to the organization. This is true of all leaders, but especially true for those of us who have chosen local government as a profession. In my opinion, leaders must:
- Pay attention to what they say and how they act
- Solicit honest feedback from stakeholders
- Not use “power” or authority to take advantage of situations or people
- Follow up on commitments made
- Reduce/eliminate gaps between words and actions
- Develop and maintain positive relationships
- Reduce, to the extent possible, personal ego
I’m sure there are many more actions leaders can take. This is my list.
As you conduct your affairs for the good of the communities you serve, remember that “the whole world is watching” and that you, as a leader, have a particular responsibility to not only do things the right way, but to do the right things… to be THE example.
Daryl J. Delabbio
Chair, Ethics Committee
Retired Municipal Manager
Daryl Delabbio spent 40 years in local government leadership. From September 1998 until his retirement in July 2017, he served as county administrator/controller for Kent County, Michigan. From September 1995 to September 1998 he was assistant county administrator. Prior to coming to Kent County, Daryl was city manager of Rockford, Michigan for 11 years, and held administrative positions with two other Michigan communities from 1977 to 1984. Throughout his career, Daryl also served as an adjunct faculty member in both graduate and undergraduate programs at Davenport University, Grand Valley State University, Western Michigan University, and Wayne State University. He holds a BA in political science and a Master of Management from Aquinas College, a Master of Public Administration from Wayne State University, and a Ph.D. from Western Michigan University. Daryl was active in numerous professional organizations, including the International City/County Management Association (executive board – midwest regional vice president, 2014-2017), the Michigan Municipal Executives (president, 2001), and the Michigan Association of County Administrative Officers (president, 2008-2010). Daryl can be reached at djdelabbio@gmail.com.