Someone I was speaking to the other day questioned the relevance of organisational values. The gist of their argument was that teams, dynamics and working practices have changed so much that trying to invent one set of values relevant to all is both irrelevant and impossible.
I found it hard to express quite how much I disagreed with
this sentiment. Firstly, due to the verb “invent”, given that I believe truly
effective values come from within. Our job is not to “invent” or create new concepts,
but to crystallise core beliefs and associated behaviours in ways that resonate
with employees and inspire them to align their own approach and activities.
Secondly, because I feel there has never been a more
important time to articulate common values. Many of us are working in different
ways and in different places, which exacerbates the challenge of connecting and
building trust with and between teams. Clear and compelling values can help to nurture
unity when we’re at risk of fragmentation.
I hope the view I heard is not becoming commonplace, because
I still believe values form a powerful and practical tool for any organisation.
If anything, changes in our working world only strengthen my conviction.
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