A Leg To Stand On: Why Core Values Differentiate You

We hear a lot about Core Values here at Trakstar and it’s something we spend a lot of time thinking and talking about. One of our favorite parts of helping companies is learning about their Core Values (or lack there of) and the story behind them.

Core Values mean different things for different organizations however are often considered corporate jargon and buried beneath mission statements.

So, do they make much of a difference? We sure think so, but only if they are built wisely and upheld with conviction.

Build wisely. It may seem obvious but core values should support your organization’s overall vision, shape the culture and reflect what your company values.  They are the backbone of your company’s identity.

Here are a few questions worth asking when developing or assessing your Core Values. Find the full article here.

• Do you hold your Core Values to be true even if they may be unpopular with others?
• Can you envision these values being as valid 100 years from now as they are today?
• Would you want the organization to continue to hold these values, even if at some point, they became a competitive disadvantage?
• Do your values align with the work you do and the culture you want to foster?

Uphold with conviction. Your values should dictate everything from daily operations to client strategy at your organization. Establishing strong core values provides both internal and external advantages to the company, such as:

• Core values help decision-making processes. If one of your core values is to stand behind the quality of your products, any products not reaching the basic standard should be suspended and re-evaluated until they meet the company standard. If you value ‘being green’ then the office should have a recycling program.
• Core values educate clients and potential customers about what the company is about and clarify the identity of the company. Especially in the current marketplace, having a set of specific core values that speak to the outsiders can set you apart. Do you believe in voluntarism and offer one day a year for your employees to volunteer instead of work? Spread the word!
• Core values make employees want to stay and engage with your organization. They provide guidance and a community that employees can live in their day to day and when they see leadership re-enforcing and valuing the same core values it makes everyone part of the team.

Core values are the building blocks that help shape and differentiate your organization. They help employees strive to perform at a high level and create a unique internal culture that everyone can invest in and be a part of.