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The Double-Edged Sword of Values: When Misalignment Hurts Organisational Values

A group of diverse people lean over a desk, pointing at a document as they discuss organisational culture.

Today, let’s dive into a topic many avoid: the perils of misaligned organisational values.

 

The Peril of Hollow Values:

It’s easy to have a list of ‘core values’ on the office wall. But what happens when these are mere words, not lived experiences? You cultivate a culture of cynicism among your employees.

 

Scratch Below the Surface:

Decoding your organisational values isn’t a quick fix. It takes more than a half-day workshop and a few post-it notes. It demands real effort.

 

Road-Test Your Values:

True organisational values withstand real-world challenges. If you claim ‘People First’ or a ‘Caring Culture’, but then overlook toxic behaviour for the sake of revenue, that’s not culture; that’s just marketing.

 

The Courage to Be Authentic:

Deep Dive: Understand what values are genuinely lived in your organisation.

Reflect: Do these align with your listed ‘core values’?

Adjust: If not, it’s time for some serious self-reflection.

 

The Payoff:

When organisational values are woven into the very fabric of your culture, the benefits are transformative. Employees feel seen, clients feel the authenticity, and both are more likely to stick around for the long haul.

 

Commit to Authenticity:

Real change needs courage, patience, and genuine commitment. The reward is a resilient, authentic culture that stands the test of time and turbulence.

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