Core Values Part 1: Keepin’ it Real
This is part 1 of a 3 part series around organizational core values. Only 32% of employees report being engaged at work (Gallup), and 70% of employees say their purpose is defined by their work (McKinsey). In this series, we work through the steps of establishing, implementing and maintaining core values that strengthen employee engagement by aligning organizational and individual purpose.
Strong core values are extremely important in shaping organizational culture. Done right, they act as foundational pieces of strategy, help define aims toward financial goals, projected outcomes, and more. So why does it often feel like a company’s values are just words on a wall or a page on its website?
For core values to be effective in engaging employees, they must be authentic to the company’s purpose and lived culture.
Establish Core Values by Keepin’ it Real
While these values (often presented with the Mission/Vision statements) may live on a corporate website, they are not something leaders can easily mandate or press upon employees. To establish reputable and effective values, the whole team needs to feel involved
79% of employees would rather stay in a job where they feel valued (even if it meant making less money). - Achievers Workforce Institute
When employees feel acknowledged, heard and respected, they are way more likely to actively support their teams, enjoy their day-to-day AND be highly productive. Employee surveys and focus groups are an excellent place to start - but it can’t stop there. To fully gain buy-in, these results and findings must be shared with employees.
Here are some recommended tools, for larger and smaller budgets, that can help garner insights and uncover what values ring true.
Big Budget:
Gallup Q12(+): 12 to 16 questions built to evaluate current employee experience, with the ability to compare your results to external participants through Gallup.
CulutreAmp: 30+ customizable templates exist in this tool to help companies get a well rounded perspective on current culture.
Grassroots Tools:
Google Forms/Free Surveys: Source a list of relevant questions for your business from online sources or explore examples of other organizations to get the ball rolling.
The One Thing Core Values: This tool can offer a profound opportunity for smaller teams to identify their individual values alongside the company’s evolution.
With a greater understanding of what employees are experiencing and where they really rank current values, organizations can knowledgeably establish a foundation of relevant, REAL core values.
Next, we’ll discuss what it takes to ensure established core values are properly implemented and maintained to optimize culture and long term profitability.
TL;DR:
Strong core values are the foundation for organizational culture, productivity and ultimately, profits.
Core values MUST be authentic to the organization. Just “talking the talk” breeds discontent among your workforce.
To establish authentic values, listen to what your employees are saying and use their feedback to build your best outcomes.
If you want to create a thriving culture grounded in meaningful values, message me for a free 30-minute consultation to assess organizational needs and determine if we're a good fit to partner. Talk soon.
