Responsibility : It Comes Before the Reward!

In most interview situations, there is inevitably the question of - "How much do I get?" As an interviewer, if I hear the issue of reward being mentioned before scope of responsibility, then I will be extra careful in hiring the individual. Reward is the by-product of responsibility and if reward is kept at the forefront of one's action, then greed and selfish ambition overtakes expression of good character.

RESPONSIBILITY is defined as knowing and doing what is expected of me. A RESPONSIBLE person can be counted upon not only to complete a task but also to own up should there be a mistake and be accountable to take any necessary action to address the gaps.

One characteristic of an unreliable person is the inability to keep commitments. A RESPONSIBLE person is not concern with the "prestige" of the job as much as the diligence needed to successfully complete the task. That is why a RESPONSIBLE person is creating for himself or herself future opportunities for success. If the current task is done well, then people can trust us for subsequent assignments.

Responsibility : It's Not About "Feeling Good"

Do I do what is right only when it feels good for me to do so? RESPONSIBILITY is about "knowing and doing what is expected of me." If that standard of expectation has its roots in my own feelings and emotions, then the result is one of unreliability - this is because emotions are subjective in nature. RESPONSIBILITY is a choice. It is choosing to consistently do what is right because of a sense of duty and obligation for the good of others - even if it means making unpopular decisions.

Here's a quick check for RESPONSIBILITY : When something goes wrong (as it often will), what is your first reaction? The unreliable person will be quick to blame and make excuses while the RESPONSIBLE person will first of all recognize what can be done within his or her own jurisdiction before looking at the actions of others. A RESPONSIBLE leader is one who is response-able i.e. he or she is able to choose to fulfill obligations and duties above personal biasness and emotional preferences. The basis of motivation for a RESPONSIBLE person is based on strong convictions and not slothful comfort.