I also do not believe you have given control to anyone when you commit to a team or an employer – in fact I believe you have entered into a partnership – a symbiotic relationship to perform and be rewarded for performance.

We obviously view this from slightly different angles and with different perspectives and I respect your opinions. Thanks for sharing them.

The Hockeyscribe

Thanks for the comment and your opinion on this topic. I have to respectfully disagree in that I feel a person’s word is the foundation for his/her integrity and once given should be honored. It’s not about hurting anyone’s feelings – it is about honoring your word – your word is your bond.

In your example you mention having accepted a job and then receiving an offer for another “better” job. And while it may be a better position, shorter commute etc. – I still believe that once your word is given you have an obligation to stand by that, to display integrity through your actions – not just give it lip service.

There are not many companies that don’t state integrity as part of their corporate values – but a company that would accept an individual who has just recently accepted another position must know they are compromising their own integrity by hiring someone who has so recently given their word to another company.

It’s just my opinion and you are absolutely entitled to yours – and I appreciate your comments on this article.

The Hockeyscribe.

That said, if you accepted a job, and then received an offer for another job which was better for you, i.e., more economical, better position, shorter commute, I think if you wanted that job, you would be foolish to stay with your employer because you did not want to hurt his feelings. That is what I am teaching my child.