Are Your Core Values in Need of a Makeover?

Just like 80's sky-high helmet hair and 90's stirrup pants...

...it might be time to take another look at your organization's guiding principles.

I know!  You're attached to them. They served you well for many years.  And some may still be relevant, but when was the last time you looked at them with 2023 eyes?

When coaching executives, one of my first questions is, "What are your company Core Values?"

I usually get three different responses:

1. Ummm... (in other words, we don't really have them defined)
2. A random mashup of great principles but in no particular order (and difficult to remember)
3. A clear, concise, and confident recitation of four to six values

As you can imagine, #3 is a winning response, because it is the outflow of deeply felt ideas that are regularly practiced.

Core values must be far more than words posted on your website (and please, DO post them on your website!)

They must be living, breathing concepts that are the centerpiece of both coaching and praise in your organization.  Reprimands and rewards are tied back to these values and when they are displayed by team members in exemplary ways, should be celebrated.

As living concepts, they evolve.  What was spot on in 2018 is likely old and dusty in the vastly different work world of 2023. That doesn't mean your founding principles aren't still great; they may just need refreshing.

One of our favorite exercises at VICI Communications is helping executive teams talk through their values and arrive at a new clarity, with actionable ways to make them come alive in their workplaces.

And in the spirit of practicing what we preach, here's our VICI Core Values (easy to remember because they spell out VICI!):

1. Value big ideas. Instead of "What if?" we say, "Why not?" Big ideas challenge and inspire and our clients discover they can achieve more than they ever dreamed possible. 

2. Insist on excellence. That's the infrastructure of integrity upon which big ideas can thrive. We work with clients to ask the difficult questions and arrive at solutions that are sustainable. 

3. Choose love. Yep, fear is always knocking at your door, but we believe LOVE never fails. It does right by people and is the sweet yet strong tenet that causes people to trust and collaborate. 

4. Infuse work with joy. We love what we do and because of it, you'll feel the relief that comes from working with us. The encouragement you'll receive will give you the courage to pursue your big dreams...and have fun in the process. 

We love helping companies conquer their conference, communications, and culture challenges. And makeovers?

They're our specialty.
 

Schedule a complimentary call to talk about how we can help clarify your Core Values and make them an integral part of your company's success.