Why is a Values-Based Company Culture So Important?

Company cultures are very important in the process of acquiring top talent and the retention of high-performing employees.  A company devoid of a culture will often result in an environment where the organization has no purpose, little alignment between the local community and customers and a strategy that can’t be sustained for the long-term.

A strong values-based culture will allow the company to grow and prosper because there is an alignment between the employees and the values of the organization.  Strong values-based cultures often rely on three key components to support this important alignment and include:

1.     The history of the company which supports a respectful environment between staff and management and a tradition of valuing all employees.  Company’s do not have to have years of business experience only the organization needs to demonstrate their commitment to the established culture.

2.     The values of the company are supported by and practiced by the leaders of the organization.  Exhibiting the values of the company in the decision making process and ensuring transparency will support a values-based culture.

3.     A values-based culture needs to be communicated and all employees need to be held accountable in the support of the principles of the agreed upon values.  Employee buy-in and support for a values-based culture will ensure an alignment between the leaders, staff and customers.

When an organization's values are clearly communicated and aligned, they become the compass or reference point for the company and its employees. When they are well ingrained in the organization, they are also reflected in the environment, in the employees' professional behavior and guide the decision making process.