Core Values - What Do You Believe?

In preparation for every meeting ZeroMils has with potential partners, we research their mission, vision and values.?While most organizations clearly define the first two; some put little to no time and effort developing their values statement.?

Perhaps it is no coincidence these same organizations have difficulty both recruiting and retaining good people.?Their difficulty lies in articulating values in a way that convinces employees that their work is truly meaningful.?

To inspire your employees you must lay out clear expectations, and recognize leaders who epitomize your values with increased responsibilities and opportunities to grow.?Companies that capture core values in a powerful way stand apart, because they resonate with everyone in their workforce. Employees feel welcomed, appreciated, and motivated to do their best work, because they know what they do matters.?

Defining your company values also requires a clear understanding of your organization’s culture and vision.?

Here are five helpful guidelines that ZeroMils used in defining our own values statement, and that we frequently share with our partners:

• Keep it short and sweet (and memorable)
• Be specific. Capture your mission and culture, too.
• Address internal and external stakeholders -- Keep your employees and your customers top of mind. Don’t be afraid to include them and ask for their input.?
• Make them unique. Use your values as an opportunity to differentiate your organization.?
• You’ll know they're “right” — because they will become part of your “everyday” work environment. (aka your culture).

We’re not saying this is easy. Paul and I have been through this process a few times in organizations we've led, and it took an extraordinary amount of time, dedication, and commitment.?

But there's one thing for sure — it is worth it.?

Stay tuned for more on why values are important, our experiences at organizations we led, and the release of ZeroMils own core values in the coming weeks! You can learn more at www.zeromils.com.