The Value in Corporate Values

Corporate values often come under scrutiny. Words like "integrity," "trust," "respect," and "inclusion" are commonplace in mission statements, etched onto office walls, and proclaimed in annual reports. This repetition and similarity might lead some to question their significance—do these values lose their meaning when every company seems to echo the same sentiments?

I don’t think so.

At their core, these shared values are reflective of a universal truth: most good businesses are striving towards similar goals. They aim to build respect among employees and clients, cultivate trust in their relationships, and foster environments that are inclusive and welcoming to all. These goals are not trivial; they are foundational.

The repetition of these words across industries doesn’t diminish their importance—it reinforces them. They are reminders of the behaviours and principles that guide decision-making and inspire the kind of workplace cultures people want to be a part of.

What truly differentiates companies isn’t the values themselves but how they live them. A value like “integrity” can be just a buzzword unless a business consistently makes ethical decisions, even when inconvenient. “Inclusion” only holds weight if a company takes actionable steps to ensure everyone feels they belong.

Values matter because they provide a compass for navigating challenges and opportunities. They remind us that the decisions we make today, shape not just our businesses but the communities and lives we touch.

So, while many companies may claim similar values, the real measure lies in the authenticity of their actions. That’s where the value in corporate values truly shines.