====== 16. Board of Directors - Code of Conduct and Core Values ======

As Board members of the Global Speakers Federation and as representatives of our respective member Associations, we commit to each other that we will act in an honest manner with one another and that we will make decisions that are in the best interest of the members of the Global Speakers Federation.  At the beginning of each Board meeting, Board members voice these values. These are the core values that we use in the conduct of our meetings:

===== 16.1 Respect =====

We will treat everyone with dignity and respect, by being open to one another and by valuing one another.  We accomplish this through:
  - Honoring each other by being on time, by being prepared, and by being present throughout the entire meeting.
  - Speaking only when we have something new to add to the discussion and by refraining from side bar conversations. 
  - Listening respectfully to other Board member’s opinions, thoughts, and feelings, even if we disagree, both verbally and non-verbally.


===== 16.2 Integrity =====

We will embrace and practice a high standard of personal ethics. We demonstrate this through:
  - Maintaining confidentiality on all Board matters.
  - Standing behind the decisions of the Board no matter what our personal opinions might be.
  - Honoring the ideals and principles of our Founders and the Board members who have served before us.

===== 16.3 Communication =====

We will create an environment that allows for and encourages an open and honest exchange of ideas, thoughts, and feelings. We accomplish this through:
  - Listening actively, openly, and objectively.
  - Voicing our opinion in the meeting rather than later.
  - Using the Rules of Order that have been developed for the Global Speakers Federation.

 
===== 16.4 Accountability =====

We will be accountable to our member Associations and use the power and responsibility entrusted to us in a wise manner.  We demonstrate this through:
  - Making decisions that are supported by data and input from key stakeholders.
  - Staying strategic in our Board discussions.
  - Being fiscally responsible. 

===== 16.5 Courage =====

We will accept necessary strategic changes and act on them, even when change is uncomfortable or unpopular.  We accomplish this through:
  - Focusing on what is right, not on who is right.
  - Learning from the past, but not being tied to it.
  - Caring enough to confront issues and ideas early and directly.



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