There are very many characteristics which go into making a model civil servant. Prominent among them are probity, industry, good sense, good habits, good temper, patience, order, courtesy, tact, self-reliance, many deference to superior officers, and many consideration for inferiors.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker lists key traits for being a good civil servant, including integrity, patience, and courtesy.
- In plain terms
- Good civil servants need many positive traits like integrity and patience.
- What can you take from it?
- Effective public service requires a wide range of personal qualities.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Which trait matters most for a civil servant?
- Can these qualities be taught?
Another view
Ideal traits may not reflect the realities of bureaucratic systems.
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