Any business is a complex system with multifaceted goals. Some of these goals are widely shared, like growth and value creation for stakeholders. But each business also gets to define its own core values. These might include trust, accountability, boldness, or innovation. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are other examples, and for many organizations, they’re a central part of how the business operates.
The Benefits of Strong Values
Values give employees a sense of purpose. People, especially younger workers, want to work somewhere they can make a meaningful impact. A business with strong values attracts those who want more than just a paycheck. It brings in people who are driven, passionate, and aligned with a company’s mission.
Sticking to your values signals a strong, authentic culture. On the flip side, walking away from them can make an organization look performative or inconsistent. Rather than chasing trends, refining your goals while holding onto your values shows real commitment to long-term progress. It builds a lasting brand, impact, and legacy.
Values also help a business stand out. Companies that want to create positive change are more likely to be seen as positive contributors to their communities. Inclusion, in particular, can drive innovation, employee engagement, and stronger decision-making – here’s how inclusion can improve your business.
When your business is built on values and purpose, it grows from the inside out. Knowing not just what you’re doing, but why, creates more cohesion, fosters connection, drives innovation, and boosts engagement.
The Strategy of Commitment
A company’s core values aren’t just words – they’re a reflection of what the business stands for and strives toward. They guide how challenges are handled and serve as a foundation for a strong company culture. Living your values isn’t just about integrity; it’s about creating a reliable system that can evolve and succeed over time.
Standing firm on your values can also bring long-term rewards. Take Apple’s commitment to privacy. It’s a value they’ve consistently upheld, and it’s become a defining part of their market position. That kind of consistency builds trust and reputation.
What Really Matters
When defining your business’s values, think about what your organization stands for, not just what it sells. Consider the kind of internal culture you want to foster, and the impact you want to make in the world. These questions help you uncover your core values. But defining them is just the start. For your values to mean something, you have to live them every day.
Want to align your calendar with the values that drive your culture? Explore our Diversity Calendar to keep inclusion top of mind all year.