How Much Does Loyalty Cost?

How much does loyalty cost? I am finding executives that seem to believe there is a price tag to loyalty, a quid pro quo. The executive that takes that approach to loyalty is a cancer on the organization, the unit, the team. That organization which allows this type of cancer to exist will die a slow and agonizing death.

What is loyalty? Simply put, loyalty is devotion and faithfulness to a cause, country, group, or person. In a work environment, this means a person is loyal to the organization, seniors, peers, and subordinates.

Loyalty is not purchased. It is not a result of giving bonuses or a pay raise. Those should be earned. Once earned, bonuses and increase in pay should be given along with the sincere appreciation for a job well done.

Loyalty is not always agreeing with everything the boss has to say but offering thoughtful feedback when there is disagreement. Loyalty is not withheld because you disagree with a decision. Loyalty is carrying out decisions willingly as if the decision were your own.

Loyalty is not speaking ill of the organization to outsiders. Loyalty is not speaking ill of your seniors in front of subordinates.

Loyalty is not expecting peers or subordinates to cover up your mistakes or take the brunt of repercussions for an ill-conceived action.

Loyalty is devotion to something you have committed to support.

Loyalty can be earned, but never purchased. I will write about how to earn loyalty in the future.