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Business Quote by Marshall Goldsmith

“People that have integrity violations should be fired, not coached. How many integrity violations does it take to ruin the reputation of your company? Just one. You don't coach integrity violations. You fire them.” quote by Marshall Goldsmith
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“People that have integrity violations should be fired, not coached. How many integrity violations does it take to ruin the reputation of your company? Just one. You don't coach integrity violations. You fire them.”

Marshall Goldsmith

About This Quote

Source Book: “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There” by Marshall Goldsmith, 2007

Integrity breaches erode trust; one serious violation justifies dismissal.

In simple terms: Integrity breaches demand action.

Key Takeaway

Enforce zero‑tolerance policies.

Themes

integrity trust leadership accountability

Mood

direct serious

Type

business ethical

When to use this quote

  • HR policy
  • leadership training
  • crisis management

Key Concepts

ethical governance organizational culture

Questions to Reflect On

  • How many violations are acceptable before termination?
  • What preventive measures protect integrity?
A Different Perspective

Repeated minor infractions may also need action; context matters.

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