The Code of the Executive

More than a thousand years ago, a group of business executives developed a set of principles for organizational leadership in a competitive market. Those executives were the samurai of ninth-century Japan, and their rigid code of ethics, known as bushido, was one of the most effective frameworks for management in history.

The Code of the Executive is business adviser Don Schmincke's modern interpretation of the Code of the Samurai—ancient wisdom written for today's corporate warriors. These principles provide a dynamic system of practical and moral training for effective leadership. In addition to interactive strategies for relating to the business world, this philosophy provides at its core a guide to the inner development necessary for consistent and long-term success.

A terrific gift for a friend, relative, new graduate, or business associate, The Code of the Executive is filled with relevant wisdom and offers an enlightened path to business fulfillment.Acknowledgments
Foreword
Preface
Introduction

Death - The Foundation
In Conversation
In Health and Long Life
In Ethics
In Moderation

Personal Principles
Right and Wrong
Alertness
Legacy
Cooperation
Self-worth
Integrity
Bravery
Honor and Respect
Thrift
Friends
Reliability
Accountability
Humility
Avoid Rumor and Slander
Avoid Bragging
Matters Literary, Aesthetic, and Athletic

Roles and Responsibilities
Politics and Power
Sacrifice
Call to Arms
Duties
Consideration
Travel
Hiring and Promoting
Respecting Personnel
The Work Environment
Weapons and Resource Availability
Proving Yourself
Escort on Negotiations
Protecting the CEO

Education and Development
Educational Responsibility
History
Continuous Learning
The Management Arts
Informationship
Executive Knowledge

Leadership
Avoid Being an Oppressor
Avoid Extortion
Avoid Abusing Power and Authority
Do Not Defile the Executive Position
Giving and Receiving Favors
Family Business

The Latter End

Epilogue

Appendix A: Applying the Code in Daily Life
Appendix B: Additional Learning Resources

Don Schmincke is president of Methods International, Inc., advisers to CEOs and executive teams worldwide. His work has been recognized in national media such as The Wall Street Journal and USA Today, and he speaks internationally to more than three hundred CEOs each year. A graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he is on the faculty of Johns Hopkins University and lives in Baltimore, Maryland.