Does Character Matter

“Character doesn’t matter” used by a presidential campaign was a way to cover up the lack of character of the candidate; therefore, using this slogan was a way to convince voters that the lack of character was irrelevant. Does character matter? The real question is not why character is important, but why it doesn’t get the attention and regard it deserves (Crossan, Gandz, and Seijts 3). That could be a matter of opinion; but to a large part of society character does matter, especially when it comes to a person that will be in the public eye or will have an influence in someone’s life. Therefore, character does matter; whether it is a president, a caregiver, a spiritual leader, a teacher, government officials, coaches, or in any leadership

Many can argue that character doesn’t matter especially when it comes to someone who will hold a public office. Many will excuse character flaws, as long as this person has leadership and brings some form of financial advantages. As long as they function well in their professional life, their personal life doesn’t seem to matter. Gene Klann mentions that “In the consuming drive to climb the corporate ladder, leaders often compromise character to reach performance goals, forgetting that enduring, positive influence depends on the type of people they are, not merely on power, titles, and personal wealth” (Klann).
But there are many instances that character does matter, especially if this person will affect someone’s life. A clear example is a church leader, where character is of true importance. If his character is flawed, could he be trusted? A leaders moral effectiveness relates to his or her conception of right and wrong and the need to live by those beliefs (Klann). The character of a spiritual leader is the foundation of his preaching because how he lives his life is the platform for his proclamation. Pastors are called to live what they preach; therefore, their character must back up what they