If you have not read James P. Owen’s book titled, “Cowboy Ethics: What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West,” you should! The book was inspired by the importance Owen places on following ethical principles in his business as an investor. Bond producers should follow them on a daily basis as well! Here they are:
James P. Owen’s 10 Principles to Live By*
Copyright 2004
Live each day with courage
Take pride in your work
Always finish what you start
Do what has to be done
Be tough, but fair
When you make a promise, keep it
Ride for the brand
Talk less and say more
Remember that some things aren’t for sale
Know where to draw the line
*An excerpt from James P. Owen’s book titled, “Cowboy Ethics: What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West,” Copyright 2004.
If you are practicing each one of Owen’s principles, congratulations! If you are falling short, these priciples will encourage you to improve your work habits!
If you or your firm is interested in learning more about the ethics working cowboys adhere to, NASBP invites you to visit the following website: cowboyethics.org
This article is authored by NASBP Ethics Committee Chairman John N. Bustard who is Executive Vice President of King & Neel, Inc. in Honolulu, HI. He can be reached at john@kingneel.com.
