Why do employees feel strongly connected in some organisations and not at all in others? This often has to do with work values. Work values determine not only what an individual finds important in work, but also what an organisation exudes and stands for. A clear set of work values helps attract and retain talent, strengthens the corporate culture and ensures a pleasant and productive working environment.
But what exactly are work values, and how can an organisation establish and leverage them? In this blog, you will discover why work values are essential for a strong employer brand and how to tailor work values as an organisation.
What are work values?
Work values are the norms and beliefs that guide how work is performed and experienced within an organisation. They form the basis of corporate culture and determine how employees behave, cooperate and develop within an organisation.
For organisations, work values are more than nice words on a website. They guide how companies interact with their employees, customers and partners. An organisation with clear work values attracts the right people and makes employees feel engaged.
Why are work values important for organisations?
Establishing clear work values offers several benefits to an organisation:
-
Stronger employer branding
Job seekers are increasingly looking for employers that match their personal values. Organisations with authentic work values are more likely to attract talent that identifies with the company culture. -
Better employee engagement
When work values are put into practice, employees feel more connected to the organisation. This increases motivation, loyalty and job satisfaction. -
More effective cooperation
Clear work values create a shared vision and behavioural norms, which improves cooperation within teams and departments. -
Higher retention and lower turnover
Employees who agree with an organisation's work values stay longer and are more productive. This reduces recruitment costs and increases stability within teams.
How do you establish strong work values as an organisation?
Establishing work values is a process that requires the involvement of all layers within the organisation. Here are the key steps:
1. Analyse the current culture and vision
Start by examining the existing corporate culture. What are work values that are already visible in the organisation? What makes you unique as an employer?
2. Involve employees in the process
Work values only work if they are widely supported. Organisations can ask employees and managers for input on what they consider important in their work. This can be done through interviews, workshops or surveys.
3. Define core values and their meaning
Work values should be concrete and applicable. Choose 4 to 6 core values that really fit the organisation and add a clear explanation. For example:
- Trust - We believe in the strength of our employees and give them freedom and responsibility.
- Innovation - We stimulate creativity and encourage employees to come up with new ideas.
- Sustainability - We are committed to a sustainable future and embed this in our operations.
4. Integrate work values into the organisation
Work values should not be empty words, but lived through in practice. This can be done by:
- Incorporating them into job ads and employer branding.
- Discussing them actively in performance appraisals and team meetings.
- Base leadership training on the organisation's work values.
5. Evaluate and adjust where necessary
Work values are not static. Employees' needs and business objectives change. Make sure work values are regularly reviewed and adjusted if necessary.
Work values examples for organisations
There are many work values that an organisation can adopt. Here are some work values examples which many companies apply:
- Customer focus - The customer is at the heart of everything we do.
- Collaboration - We believe in the power of teamwork.
- Transparency - Open communication and honesty are paramount.
- Sustainability - We aim to have a positive impact on people and the environment.
- Personal growth - We invest in the development of our employees.
By having a clear set of work values, you ensure that employees and customers know what your organisation stands for.
The role of work values in recruitment and retention
Work values play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent. In a competitive job market, candidates choose not only based on salary, but also on company culture and core values.
Organisations that actively communicate their work values attract employees who truly fit the organisational culture. This prevents mismatches and increases employee satisfaction and productivity.
In addition, work values can be used to guide employer branding and internal communication. By consistently propagating the right values, you as an organisation build a strong brand that is attractive not only to candidates, but also to existing employees.
Conclusion: work values as a foundation for success
What are work values for your organisation? This is a question companies are increasingly asking themselves. Work values determine how an organisation functions, how employees cooperate and how a company profiles itself as an employer. By establishing and actively promoting clear work values as an organisation, you create a pleasant and productive working environment that attracts and retains talent.
Do you want to establish or sharpen working values as an organisation? Goals helps companies develop and implement strong work values that contribute to an authentic and attractive employer brand. Find out how we can support you or take a look at LinkedIn!
