Most people I work with say their company values include such items as Integrity, Customer Service, Quality, Respect, High Performance, Teamwork, Leadership, and Innovation. Often these words are prominently displayed on plaques and screen savers, and incorporated into branding and marketing materials. How do leaders in your organization put their values in action?
Successful leaders know that key values set the direction of their organizations. They continuously come back to the fundamental principles that optimize human activity and fulfill their people.
As Anna Crowe emphasizes in Get Real: The Power of Genuine Leadership, a Transparent Culture, and an Authentic You (Lioncrest Publishing, 2019), values mean nothing to people unless they’re backed up with action. And I agree.
People
The value that you place on people—their worth—correlates to organizational success. Great leaders regard relationships as their organizations’ lifeblood. People work effectively only when they authentically relate to each other in a culture that promotes relationships. People-centered leaders purposefully relate to their colleagues, superiors and direct reports, thereby setting an example for their teams.
Relationships
A relationship-oriented culture welcomes workplace diversity, recognizing the advantages of multicultural backgrounds and distinct abilities. Relational leaders put these differences to use, providing employee fulfillment by making sure everyone is included and valued. They respect people for who they are—not only for their technical skills, but for the relationships they cultivate.
Teamwork
Teamwork is critical to maintaining relationships and productivity. We accomplish more when working with blended resources. We are the sum of our parts.
When this topic comes up with my coaching clients, we discuss how teamwork-centered employees experience greater engagement and fulfillment. If you authentically promote teamwork, you’ll be surprised at the levels to which people can rise. Be prepared to provide a commensurate level of assistance, especially if you set high goals for your teams.
Give of yourself, and clear the way for people to succeed. Demonstrate that you’re willing to sacrifice your own needs to further the team’s goals and accomplishments. Put your people’s needs ahead of self-interest. Employees will do almost anything to please leaders who go out of their way to help them succeed.
Professionalism
Professionalism is yet another value that sets the pace for your workforce. You can have fun and enjoy what you’re doing, but treat situations in mature and intentional ways. Your moral code should reflect authenticity and excellence. Banish negativity and inappropriate behavior, and exemplify a commitment to giving your best. Authentic leaders embody professionalism by walking the walk and not just talking the talk.
What other values would you add to this list? How do you put your values in action? You can call me at 561-582-6060, let’s talk. And as always, I can be reached here, or on LinkedIn.
