Company values are the fundamental beliefs and principles that guide an organization and shape its culture. They help explain why a business does what it does and differentiate its brand from competitors. Company values impact all aspects of a business, from the product development to sales and marketing strategies, and the customer service delivered by employees. They are the principles that support a companys vision and help everyone in the organization reach the goals set for the company.
Company values can include all forms of value that determine the health and well-being of the firm in the long run, such as employee value, customer value, supplier value, channel partner value, alliance partner value, managerial value, and societal value. They can be tangible, intangible, or both. Examples of company values include communication, respect, integrity, excellence, loyalty, honesty, trust, ingenuity, accountability, simplicity, value-centricity, and diversity.
Having a core set of company values makes it easier for a company to make decisions, foster teamwork, and help employees collaborate. They can also help quickly communicate principles to clients and customers and hire employees with the right attitude. Company values can set a company apart from the competition by clarifying its identity and serving as a rallying point for employees.
However, it is important to note that empty values statements can create cynical and dispirited employees, alienate customers, and undermine managerial credibility. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right core company values that are unique to the company and experience and to stick to them.