Let’s start with a definition from the Merriam-Webster dictionary and what it says about integrity.
- : firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : incorruptibility
- : an unimpaired condition : soundness
- : the quality or state of being complete or undivided : completeness
And now you’re probably wondering what’s with up with this post. Well you see I’m annoyed and the best way to deal with it is to talk about it so here I am. Talking.
I think that in blogging as well as life in general we should all have integrity and follow it no matter what. Our real lives and our lives online intersect every day especially when we blog and we have to keep in mind our morals and make sure that we’re following them. We need to be true to ourselves, to our readers, and to everyone out there that we may come in contact with. At some point in time we may say or do something that goes against our morals we need to be prepared to either justify it or apologize for our actions. Many times people ignore it because they don’t see the wrong that they’ve done even if they’re told by another.
I was looking around a bit on the internet for blogging with integrity information and came across this site, Blog with Integrity, Inc., and after reading what they were all about I immediately signed the pledge and added their button to my blog. If you have integrity and like what the Blog with Integrity site says then sign the pledge and add the button!
If you’re interested here’s the pledge.
“By displaying the Blog with Integrity badge or signing the pledge, I assert that the trust of my readers and the blogging community is important to me.
I treat others respectfully, attacking ideas and not people. I also welcome respectful disagreement with my own ideas.
I believe in intellectual property rights, providing links, citing sources, and crediting inspiration where appropriate.
I disclose my material relationships, policies and business practices. My readers will know the difference between editorial, advertorial, and advertising, should I choose to have it. If I do sponsored or paid posts, they are clearly marked.
When collaborating with marketers and PR professionals, I handle myself professionally and abide by basic journalistic standards.
I always present my honest opinions to the best of my ability.
I own my words. Even if I occasionally have to eat them.”
Now class I’ll take your questions, comments, and suggestions.
