How to Spot Integrity Online: Is Someone’s Influence Genuine or Self-Serving?
It's easy to get lost in the noise of the internet. Social media, influencers, and online personalities are constantly vying for our attention. But how do we know if the person we're interacting with online has integrity? How can we be sure they aren't using their influence just for their own gain, or worse, with malicious intent? In this blog, we're diving deep into the concept of integrity and how it plays a crucial role in determining whether someone's influence is genuine or just a tool to build their brand.
What Is Integrity, and Why Does It Matter?
Integrity is more than just being honest. It's about consistency between your values, actions, and decisions. Integrity is the foundation of trust and respect, and it's what separates someone with true influence from someone simply seeking to gain followers, likes, and views.
To help us better understand the relationship between integrity and influence, I had a conversation with Bill Pipke, author of Integrity: The Best Foundation. Bill pointed out that true influence is not about building your brand for personal gain—it's about using your influence to benefit others.
Everyone Has Influence—But What Kind?
Bill emphasized that we all have influence, whether we realize it or not. The amount of influence may vary, but we each have the power to affect those around us. Even a quiet, introverted person can influence hundreds or even thousands of people over their lifetime. Influence isn't limited to those with charisma or social media fame. It can stem from expertise, experience, or wisdom, and its ultimate value lies in whether it’s used for good.
But here's the kicker: Not all influence is equal. Some types of influence are more powerful and beneficial than others. For example, moral influence—using your integrity to guide others—is the highest and best form of influence. It doesn't shout to be noticed; it speaks through actions, humility, and a genuine concern for others' well-being.
Moral Influence vs. Charismatic Influence
While charisma can certainly attract attention, it's important to recognize that it doesn't automatically equate to integrity. Charismatic individuals may draw people in, but their actions will ultimately reveal whether their influence is positive or self-serving.
Bill shared an insightful example from history, drawing from the story of a young man with great entitlement who lacked the character to support his position. His failure to align his actions with integrity led to conflict and mistrust, both personally and professionally. This breakdown in integrity is common in cases where influence is used solely for personal gain. Without integrity, charisma or power will inevitably crumble.
The Dangers of Using Influence for Selfish Gain
So, how do we spot when someone's using their influence for self-interest? According to Bill, the first thing to look for is who benefits from their actions. Is it just them, or are others gaining something as well? If someone is using their influence to solely build their brand or protect their position, it’s a red flag.
The purpose behind someone's actions should be transparent. Are they sharing their successes and failures equally? Are they lifting others up or using their influence to tear down competitors? These are the key questions to ask when assessing whether someone's influence is grounded in integrity.
Influence in the Age of Social Media
The internet is full of influencers who claim to have the best advice, products, or lifestyle tips. But how do we know if they’re genuine? Many influencers promote causes or donate to charities, but we must ask: Is this for show, or is it part of a genuine commitment to doing good?
Bill pointed out that some influencers only show the good parts of their lives—leaving out their failures, struggles, and flaws. True authenticity comes from sharing not just the successes but also the challenges and setbacks. It's about being transparent and real, rather than presenting a polished image for approval.
The Long-Term Consequences of Lacking Integrity
As Bill highlighted, influence that lacks integrity will eventually lead to a downfall. Whether in leadership, business, or personal relationships, integrity is the cornerstone that keeps everything grounded. Without it, power and influence can quickly slip away.
A lack of integrity may not be immediately obvious, but over time, unresolved issues will surface. Bill used the example of a leader who, despite his outward success, carried unresolved anger and vengeance from his past. This lack of emotional and moral integrity ultimately affected his leadership and the trust others had in him. In the end, it was only a matter of time before his influence faltered.
Integrity and Sustainable Influence
The bottom line is this: Influence is most powerful when it’s rooted in integrity. The integrity of a person guides their actions and decisions, ensuring that their influence brings about positive change, not just for themselves but for everyone involved.
Influence driven by integrity builds trust, fosters collaboration, and creates long-lasting relationships. But when integrity is compromised, influence loses its foundation, and everything built on it crumbles. If you want to maintain and grow your influence, you must consistently align your actions with your values.
The Importance of Integrity in Online Interactions
So, how do we know if someone’s influence online is genuine? Pay attention to the purpose behind their actions. Who benefits from their influence? Are they transparent and authentic? Do their values align with the way they use their influence? If the answers to these questions align with integrity, then you're likely interacting with someone who has genuine influence.
In the end, integrity is the best foundation for influence—whether online or offline. Without it, influence is hollow and short-lived. When integrity is at the core of someone's actions, their influence can truly make a positive difference.
Want to dive deeper into the six pillars of integrity? Head to Bill Pipke’s online course: Integrity the Best Foundation or pick up a copy of his book, Integrity: The Best Foundation, and start your journey toward building trust and lasting success today.
