The True Public Servant


  1. Will not act out of spite, bias, or favoritism;
  2. Will not tell the boss only what he or she wants to hear;
  3. Respects the competence and views of others;
  4. Does not succumb to peer or other pressure;
  5. Contributes to a climate of mutual trust, respect and friendliness;
  6. Refuses to let official actions be influenced by personal relationships, including those arising from past or prospective employment;
  7. Has the courage of his or her convictions;
  8. Is not seduced by flattery;
  9. Unflinchingly accepts responsibility;
  10. Does not try to shift blame to others and accepts responsibility for one’s own actions and conduct;
  11. Can distinguish between the need to support an unwelcome decision and the duty to report unethical conduct;
  12. Never forgets that they are working for the people…all the people.

Adopted from: Ethical Principles for the Public Servant
By: The Council for Excellence in Government