Visible Values

How does your organization interpret its core values? Most people interpret core values very differently. Sometimes even conflict surfaces, because we assume our interpretation is correct. Core value statements are typically filled with abstract concepts like leadership, respect, integrity or service. Write Wise Communications empowers clients to transform ideas, like core values, into clear messages.

What do these concepts really look like in the workplace? This edition focuses on communicating core values concretely to drive achievement.

When discussing a core value like respect, some think it means fear. “People respect me because I’m the boss, and they obey me.” This interpretation makes sense, probably because we are bombarded with violent, abusive movies and other media in our society.

Others think respect means to value other people’s opinions, even if they differ. Who’s right? Respect usually means:

• Make eye contact
• Speak softly
• Be polite
• Listen and avoid interrupting
• Try
• Include or involve people (as opposed to excluding them)
• Respond to people
• Use appropriate language
• Avoid talking down to people

What does service mean?

• Calling people back within 24 hours
• Keeping promises and commitments
• Communicating when things go wrong
• Allowing flexibility if people have/need unique circumstances
• Apologize for mistakes
• Move toward solutions instead of getting stuck on the problem
• Telling people what you CAN do, instead of what you CAN’T do
• Picking up the slack when work gets overwhelming

Let’s examine integrity. Some people think integrity means full disclosure. For example, if something breaks, we must tell the customer all the details surrounding the incident. Others disagree, saying we lose integrity by revealing too much. Again, who’s right?

Success depends on getting most employees to agree on what core values look like in the organization. When people interpret core values similarly, we get predictable, consistent results. That’s really what internal and external customers want!

If your organization needs help defining, communicating or acting on core values in a unified way, call us today.