Imagine stepping into a workplace where the mission is clear, the energy is infectious, and every team member is aligned toward a common goal. Now imagine the opposite: a company where values are merely words on a wall, lacking meaning and impact. People act on impulse and processes are ignored. For many blue collar businesses, this is the reality.
If your core values are hurting your business, it’s time to rethink your approach.
Core Values are Caught, Not Taught
The phrase “values are caught, not taught” resonates deeply in today’s workplace. If your leadership team doesn’t embody the core values you’ve set, your employees will see through the facade. They will feel the disconnect between what is preached and what is practiced. This leads to disengagement, higher turnover rates, and a culture that stifles growth.
Take, for example, a construction company that prides itself on integrity as one of its core values. The owner often emphasizes the importance of honesty in dealings with clients. However, the project managers routinely cut corners and don’t communicate openly with team members. The message is inconsistent. Employees witness questionable behaviors, leading to a culture where cutting corners is accepted. As a result, not only do you lose the trust of your team, but you also risk losing clients who value integrity.
A strong set of core values should act as a guiding star for decision-making and behavior within the organization. It’s not enough to slap a few buzzwords on a poster and call it a day. Your core values should be deeply ingrained in your company culture, influencing everything from hiring practices to daily operations. This must start at the top with your leadership team living out the core values.
Clarity Leads to Retention
When your core values are vague or poorly defined, confusion abounds. Employees are unsure about expectations, leading to a lack of accountability. You may find yourself in a situation where key team members leave because they feel disconnected or unsure about the future of your company.
Just like Jim Collins said in his book Good to Great, having the right people in the right seats is crucial. But what happens if those people aren’t clear on where the bus is going? Without clear core values and a vision for the future, they’re probably going to get off your bus at the first sign of trouble.
It’s time to fill up your bus with people who are excited about where you’re going. The only way to do that is by living out your core values, acting in a way that’s consistent with what you expect of others, and getting really clear on where you’re going.
Developing Impactful Core Values
So, how can you make sure your core values truly reflect your business and guide your team with a renewed sense of purpose?
- Define with Clarity: Gather your leadership team and define what values truly matter to your business. Make sure your core values are specific, actionable, and resonate with your team’s experiences.
- Lead by Example: Your behavior as a leader sets the tone for the entire company. If you want to cultivate a culture of accountability, demonstrate it in your actions. Hold yourself and your leadership team accountable to the same standards you expect from your employees.
- Communicate Frequently: Make core values a regular part of conversations. Incorporate them into meetings, performance reviews, and training sessions. When team members see core values in action, they are more likely to embrace them.
- Foster a Feedback Loop: Encourage employees to share their thoughts on how well the organization embodies its core values. Create a safe environment where feedback is welcomed and use this information to continuously improve.
- Celebrate Success: Recognize and celebrate instances where employees exemplify core values in their work. This reinforces the importance of the values and also boosts morale and engagement.
Clear core values will transform your business. When your team is aligned and engaged, they are more likely to weather challenges together. Employees who feel connected to your core values are less likely to abandon ship during uncertain times. They will be more invested in finding solutions and keeping your business afloat.
Ready to Make a Change?
If you’re feeling the strain of high turnover rates or a disengaged workforce, take a moment to examine your core values. Are they clear, actionable, and representative of your culture? If not, it’s time to make a change.
Schedule your free, no obligation call today to learn how we help companies just like yours build their employer brand and attract a team that allows them to reach their personal and business goals.
Remember, when you clarify your core values and live them consistently, you not only enhance your business culture but also set your company up for long-term success.
