Company Values That Make a Difference

Many companies have the same values, in fact there are many lists online that give a great place to start. It is not about simply picking 5 personal values and dropping them into a presentation, it is about choosing values with meaning, that run through the very core of your business.

Today, we'll dive into the nitty-gritty of finding those elusive values that match your purpose and why they're not just touchy-feely nonsense but a real game-changer.

Value Hunt: A Methodical Approach

Step 1: Reflect on Your Purpose Before you embark on a quest for values, remind yourself of your Purpose. Your values should be the faithful companions to your Purpose, not rogue elements. Think of them as the foundation of your business.

Step 2: Get Stakeholder Input Gather your team and ideate with gusto, print off the long lists for stimulus, give references to companies you admire, give as much context as you can. Write down all the values that come to mind.

Step 3: Weed Out the Unfit Eliminate the values that don't align with your Purpose.

Step 4: Rank and Prioritise Rank your values in order of importance. It's an exercise in putting your values in order.

Step 5: Stress Test Them Imagine your values in action during tough decisions. If they crumble under pressure like a house of cards, they're not the real deal.

Step 6: Create, Evolve and Combine

An ideal number of values is 4 however you want no more than 6. Revisit step 2, add to the short list perhaps combine some, or evolve some of the thinking further.

Step 7: Ownership - Explain What You Mean

Each value to have an accompanying statement to give context and ownership to the value.

Crystal Clear Clarity

Values act as the glue that holds your team together. When everyone is on the same page about what truly matters, it's like having a team working in harmony. Clarity cuts through the fog of ambiguity, helping your team make decisions faster and with confidence.

Brands Doing It Right

1. Yorkshire Tea: With values like "Authenticity," "Sustainability," and "Passion for Quality," Yorkshire Tea stays true to its roots while embracing global responsibility.

2. Marmite: Known for "Uniqueness," "Bravery," and "British Humour," Marmite creates a culture that's as polarising as its spread.

3. Pukka Herbs: These herbal wizards value "Sustainability," "Social Responsibility," and "Passion for Plants." They've brewed up a culture as wholesome as their teas.

The Recipe for a Great Culture

Well communicated values that align to Purpose, Vision and Mission are the foundation for creating a great culture.

1. Walk the Talk: Your values are only as good as the actions that back them up. Show, don't just tell.

2. Hire and Fire by Them: Make your values a core part of your hiring process. And don't be afraid to part ways with those who can't align with your values.

3. Celebrate and Reward: Recognise and reward behaviours that embody your values. After all, who doesn't love a pat on the back?

4. Adapt and Evolve: As your business grows, your values may need a refresh. Don't be afraid to refine them like a fine wine.

In the end, values are more than just a list of words. They're the guiding principles that define your business and shape its destiny.