Do we really need to have company values?
Having specific values creates a structure for the goals of the organization. They support the company’s vision and shape its culture. Overall, when values are defined, decisions will be influenced by these values.
Of course, there are some companies that understand their core values, while others only talk a good game. They may write them down, but have a hard time living them. Having specific company values and following them will benefit employee engagement, making sure that you and your employees have similar goals. They will help to guide how employees, as well as customers, interact with your organization.
A company’s relationship to their core values is up to leadership. It is in their hands to improve understanding and use the values as a guide when making decisions for the employees and the organization.
For example: Say you have a customer who is difficult and constantly disrespectful. That can cause upset and negativity within your own company. At that point, the relationship with the client needs to be evaluated. What do you do?
Here at Improving Communications, one of our Company Values is RESPECT. It is important to us as individuals and as a group. The decision in the end may be that it is more important to forego the income from that client, because we don’t need the abuse. It doesn’t fit into our values.
At Improving Communications, every day we strive to be our best. We are people who value:
- Integrity – a firm adherence to a code of values
- Respect – a genuine care and regard for the feelings, wishes, rights, and traditions of all.
- Family – the basic unit in society that provides the primary sources of inclusion, belonging, and love.
- Positivity – an affirmative, optimistic, and inclusive attitude reflected in speech and behavior.
- Empowerment – a focus on promoting self-actualization and encouraging people to grow stronger and more confident.
- UB4me – placing the needs or wishes of others first.
Do you have strong values—and are you willing to stick to them? It takes some work. Not everyone will agree with the values, or feel that they need to follow them. An organization has to decide how important the values are, and follow through on the possible results if those values are compromised.
Know your values and know your company. They will set you apart from the competition by displaying your identity and giving your employees a firm foundation.
This information is based in our Leadership & Management curriculum. If you’re looking for ways to improve your communication skills, register for one of our public classes.
Photo by fauxels on Pexels
Other Resources: Company Values
The Importance of Company Values Haiilo.com
Make Your Values Mean Something HBR.com
Rich Atkins is the Managing Director of Improving Communications, a New York-based corporate training firm that, in addition to Speaker Services, offers Business Writing, Public Speaking & Presentation Skills, Sales and Negotiation, Customer Service, Leadership, Staff Development, and Human Resources training. He is also the Director of Improving Communications UK and Improving Communications IE.