March 9, 2026
CBMC urges business leaders to build trust and long-term profit through integrity
National Ethics Awareness Month highlights the financial and relational value of principled leadership, organization says
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC)urges business leaders to prioritize ethical decision-making during National Ethics Awareness Month in March, emphasizing that integrity is not only morally right but also financially beneficial over time.
The organization points to research showing workplace ethics remain a widespread concern. According to Gallup, nearly one in four U.S. employees, or 23 percent, say they have personally witnessed or have first-hand knowledge of unethical behavior by colleagues or managers within the past year.
CBMC leaders say the findings underscore the need for intentional leadership rooted in consistent principles, especially for Christian business professionals seeking to integrate faith and work.
“Ethical leadership is not simply about avoiding wrongdoing; it is about actively building trust that strengthens relationships and organizations,” said Matt Trayler, director of programs for CBMC. “When leaders commit to integrity in every decision, they create environments where employees, customers and partners feel confident investing their time and resources.”
The ministry notes that trust serves as the foundation for long-term business success. While ethical choices may sometimes appear costly in the short term, organizations built on integrity often experience stronger customer loyalty, improved reputations and more sustainable partnerships.
Through its teaching resources and leadership development programs, CBMC encourages business professionals to become the kind of partners they would want to work with — individuals known for reliability, honesty and accountability.
The organization also highlights biblical principles as practical guidance for navigating ethical challenges. Among the recommendations are avoiding shortcuts, examining motivations, acknowledging failures quickly, recognizing warning signs, seeking counsel and remaining willing to accept personal or financial costs for doing what is right.
“Integrity means being the same person in every setting, whether anyone is watching or not,” Trayler said. “Leaders who refuse to compromise their values ultimately position themselves and their companies for lasting impact.”
Ethical leadership also contributes to healthier workplace cultures, according to the organization. Employees who trust their leaders are more likely to demonstrate engagement, collaboration and innovation, factors that directly influence productivity and profitability.
CBMC officials say National Ethics Awareness Month provides an opportunity for business leaders to reflect on their decision-making patterns and recommit to principled leadership.
“Profit and ethics are not competing priorities,” Trayler said. “Organizations that consistently do the right thing develop reputations that attract opportunities, partnerships and talent. Over time, ethical leadership proves to be one of the most strategic investments a business can make.”
Christian Business Men’s Connection (CBMC) exists to see men’s lives, families and workplaces transformed by God through a growing evangelism and discipleship movement in every community across the nation. Reaching, empowering and deploying generations of men in the workplace to live out their faith and multiply their impact for Christ is now more relevant than ever. As men strive for meaningful lives, CBMC is prepared to share the hope of the Gospel and offer essential tools for spiritual growth. Through Gospel-centered peer advisory groups and mentoring relationships, CBMC helps professionals achieve their business objectives and personal development goals.
For more information, visit the CBMC website athttps://www.cbmc.com/.
###
To interview a Christian Business Men’s Connection representative, contact Hamilton Strategies, Media@HamiltonStrategies.com, Beth Bogucki, 610.584.1096 ext. 105, or Daniel Moyer, ext. 104.
