Company values are a glimpse into an organization’s vision, mission and culture. They shape the employee experience. Unfortunately, a study from Gallup reveals just 27% of employees strongly believe in their company’s values.
Core values should motivate, excite and ultimately drive a workforce forward. When the principles that matter to an organization aren’t clear, it can lead to:
- confusion
- disengagement
- stagnation
- burnout
A company’s values should be obvious and relevant — not just catchphrases. Every aspect of a business should reflect its purpose. If you’re looking for a new role, make sure your potential employer’s values are top of mind.
Why values matter
Company values aren’t a new concept, but the organizations with strategic, clear values are the ones that thrive.
Jim Collins and Jerry Porras coined the phrase “core values” in their 1994 landmark book on business, Built to Last. It followed 18 companies from their founding to compare growth and success. Collins and Porras found the best companies had a consistent set of principles — their core values. Consequently, Built to Last compelled businesses to organize and establish their own values.
Today, new generations of talent continue to place stock in what a company stands for. According to Deloitte, Generation Z is less concerned with a company’s products and services and more invested in their:
- ethics
- practices
- social impact
A company that understands what they care about will openly share their values and the positive impact of their operations. When speaking to Forbes, several CEOs said actively demonstrating and broadcasting their core values:
- humanizes and legitimizes their brands
- makes their organizations more visible
- inspires employees toward a common goal
Today, many businesses invest in defining and communicating their values. Take time to understand the core values of every employer you consider.
Aligning core values
Look for a company whose values align with your own. You’ll feel more satisfied as an employee, and the path to long-term success with them will be clearer. This process may raise a very important question: “What are my personal values?”
By identifying your own personal values, you’ll better understand what you want from an employer. And if you struggle to define them at first, it’s OK; they may shift with new experiences. Regardless, it’s important to consider your purpose and what matters in life.
For example, you may find you value:
- innovation
- cultural awareness
- community
- perseverance
- and more
These examples are core values you need to look for as you research an organization. In fact, another Forbes article suggests when company values are truly shared — not just dictated — it encourages higher levels of:
- inclusion
- engagement
- development
For that reason, it’s crucial to find a company that aligns with your personal values. This will motivate you to strive for success and grow in your role. Be a productive leader and team player by understanding your company’s core values and adhering to them every day.
Paycom values
At Paycom, we uphold five core values:
- We innovate. We transform how people do business.
- We win. We play to win.
- We care. We care more.
- We serve. We make life better for all.
- We believe. We believe in our people and technology.
Everything we do, from our employee programs to our giving strategy and tech development, filters through this lens.
Do our core values align with your beliefs? Apply today!
