Defining Your Core Values: A Step-by-Step Guide – Part 2

Alright, folks, welcome back to the core values saga. Last time, we chatted about why core values are the Beyoncé of your business – absolutely essential and undeniably fabulous. Today, we’re rolling up our sleeves and diving into the nitty-gritty of discovering your core values. Spoiler alert: It’s not as daunting as it sounds.

Why Bother with Core Values?

Before we get into the how, let’s remind ourselves why we’re doing this. Core values are like the GPS for your business journey. They keep you on track, help you make decisions, and ensure you don’t end up in a ditch. Plus, they’re a magnet for your dream clients and employees. Who doesn’t want to be the business equivalent of a magnet?

Defining Your Core Values_ A Step-by-Step Guide - Part 2 V1

Step 1: Reflect on Your Personal Values

First things first, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if you’re fancy) and a comfy seat. Let’s start with you. Your personal values are the foundation of your core values. They’re what makes you tick and, ultimately, what makes your business tick.

Ask Yourself:

  • What principles do you live by?
  • What’s non-negotiable in your personal life?
  • What makes you feel fulfilled and happy?

Jot down your answers. Don’t overthink it – this isn’t an exam. Just be honest with yourself.

Step 2: Identify Your Business’s Mission

Next up, let’s talk business. Your mission is the “why” behind what you do. It’s the driving force that gets you out of bed in the morning (besides coffee).

Questions to Consider:

  • Why did you start your business?
  • What problems are you solving for your customers?
  • What impact do you want to make?

Write down your mission. Make it clear and concise. This will serve as the backbone of your core values.

Step 3: Find the Overlap

Now, here’s where the magic happens. Look at your personal values and your business mission. Find the overlap. These are the sweet spots where your personal beliefs align with your business goals.

Example:

  • Personal Value: Honesty
  • Business Mission: Providing transparent marketing strategies
  • Overlap: Integrity in all client communications and services

These overlapping values are gold. They’re authentic and will resonate with both you and your audience.

Step 4: Get Input from Your Team

If you have a team, this step is crucial. Your core values shouldn’t just reflect you; they should reflect your entire business. Gather your team and brainstorm together. Ask them what they value in the workplace and in life.

Discussion Prompts:

  • What values do you see in our daily work?
  • What values do you think we should embody?
  • What kind of work culture do we want to create?

This collaborative approach ensures everyone’s on the same page and feels a sense of ownership over the values.

Step 5: Narrow Down the List

By now, you should have a hefty list of potential core values. It’s time to narrow it down. Aim for 3-5 core values that truly represent your business. Any more, and it gets overwhelming. Any less, and it might not be comprehensive enough.

Criteria for Selection:

  • Relevance: Does this value align with your mission and vision?
  • Authenticity: Is this value true to who you are and what you believe?
  • Impact: Will this value guide your business decisions and behavior?

Step 6: Define Each Value

Simply having a list of values isn’t enough. You need to define what each value means in the context of your business. This clarity ensures everyone understands and embodies the values.

Format:

  • Value: Integrity
  • Definition: We prioritize honesty and transparency in all our interactions, ensuring trust and credibility with our clients and team.

These definitions provide a roadmap for behavior and decision-making.

Step 7: Integrate Values into Your Business

Alright, you’ve got your core values. Now what? It’s time to weave them into the fabric of your business. This isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing commitment.

Practical Integration Tips:

  • Hiring: Use your values as a filter during the hiring process. Hire people who align with your values.
  • Onboarding: Introduce new hires to your values from day one. Make it part of their training.
  • Decision-Making: Use your values as a litmus test for business decisions. If it doesn’t align, don’t do it.
  • Performance Reviews: Evaluate employees not just on their work but on how well they embody the values.
  • Marketing and Communication: Let your values shine in your marketing messages and customer interactions.

Real-Life Example: Core Values in Action

Let’s talk about Mary, a client of mine. When she started her Etsy shop, MinnyPrints, she was all over the place. Her business lacked direction, and she felt disconnected from her brand. We worked together to define her core values. Turns out, her personal values of creativity, integrity, and customer focus were a perfect match for her business.

We defined these values clearly and integrated them into every aspect of MinnyPrints. Her marketing messages became more authentic. Her customer service improved. She even saw an increase in sales because customers resonated with her genuine approach. Mary’s business transformed from a chaotic venture to a purposeful brand with a loyal following.

Conclusion

Defining your core values is like finding your business’s true north. It guides you, aligns your team, and connects with your customers. Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about being authentic and intentional.

In our next article, we’ll dive deeper into understanding what your core values mean to you and your business. Get ready to unlock even more insights and take your business to the next level.

Ready to define your core values? Share your initial thoughts below, and let’s start the conversation. Your business will thank you for it.

There are 3 articles in this Defining Your Core Values series. Check them all out here: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *