Maintaining absolute integrity is the bottom-line rule for any leader if they want their subordinates to follow them under all conditions. How do you cultivate integrity? First: Keep your word. If you say something, make certain it is the exact truth. Second: Choose the harder right over the easier wrong. When you are faced with choices of right or wrong, no matter what your boss thinks...no matter what the stockholders think...choose the right. To lead effectively, especially during difficult times, you must be known as a person of your word.