How Employers Can Ethically Install Company Values In Employees

When a company does the work to identify its values, it must be willing to commit to instilling those company values in every part of the organization, especially its employees. It's not about drafting a mission statement and displaying it on an office wall; that fails more times than it succeeds. One symptom of weak leadership is changing company values every year or two trying to artificially tap into something they think will make a few more dollars.

Embedding company values into the fabric of the organization requires intentional effort. One effective way to achieve this is through regular communication and reinforcement of values. By consistently highlighting and discussing these values during both formal and informal meetings, training, and conversations, employers can ensure that employees understand their importance and relevance in day-to-day work, even when (especially when) you highlight the behavior that exemplifies the values, and not just the values themselves.

Moreover, leading by example is crucial when it comes to installing company values in employees. Employees are more likely to embrace and embody organizational values if they see their leaders actively demonstrating them. Time after time I have seen or heard of so-called leaders claim they value one thing while disregarding it at the first sign that the grass may be greener elsewhere.

Saying you value something (let’s say CARING as a value) and then acting differently is an example of a COUNTERFEIT VALUE. The value is as worthless as a counterfeit $100 bill. This happens too often in both for-profit and somewhat surprisingly, not-for-profit organizations.

This means that employers need to consistently model behavior aligned with those values. Whether it's displaying INTEGRITY when faced with tough decisions or fostering a culture of COLLABORATION by soliciting input from team members, leaders who exemplify the desired values through their behavior create an environment where employees and customers perceive values alignment as important for both individual success and overall organizational success.

In addition to communication and leading by example, providing opportunities such as workshops for employee growth centered around values can also be instrumental in promoting long-term adherence to company values. Ideally, the company values mirror the employees’ values and at least represent the ASPIRATIONAL VALUES of their customers.

Ultimately, employers must remember that ethically installing company values requires a long-term commitment and consistent effort. It's about creating a culture embedded with these values at all levels, without exception. By valuing employee input and investing in development programs while leading by example, companies can create a strong foundation for behavior that is consistent with their values and the experience employees and customers want to have with the company.

Learn how to become a Certified Values Inspired Coach at https://www.valuesinspired.com