“It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.” ~ Roy Disney

Core values are deeply held beliefs that guide each and every decision and action of a company. They represent the essential “being” of a company. Core values also help companies to determine if they are on the right path to fulfilling their business. Feeling aligned with a company’s core values is one of the top reasons employees love where they work. It is also cited as a primary reason why consumers have a loyalty to a certain brand. Defining your company’s core values is essential to success.

What steps does a company and management team need to take to define a company’s core values? Begin the process by:

1) Brainstorm and define your company’s values: Asking questions such what do you and the employees of your company hold important? What do your clients expect from you? This step may be surprisingly time consuming, but it is the most important step in defining your core values.

2) Evaluate your values as a complete set: Though there is no set rule, typically companies are able to define five to ten concrete values. Take a look at these values as a whole and make sure they encompass the most important aspects of your company. Are they ideas to which you are willing to hold yourself and your employees accountable?

3) Implement the core values: It is important to remember that your company’s policies and procedures are a direct reflection of its core values. How do you hold your employees accountable? By setting clear, concrete company policies. Here are some ideas on how to ensure that your employees are familiar with the policies and procedures of your company:

  • Write your procedures down and make sure they are easily accessible (print as well as online).
  • Remind employees often why procedures are necessary and make sure they know how they relate to the organization’s overall mission.
  • Make following procedures as easy as possible, including the introduction of checklists to help employees and management see the steps involved.
  • Provide ongoing training opportunities (either live or online) for employees.
  • Policies and their related procedures need to be reviewed and updated regularly. Typically, and overall review should be completed every two the three years. However, keep in mind that national and state legislation may require review more often.

Need more suggestions on defining, evaluating and implementing your company’s core values? Contact us for more ideas.