Knowing your Values

There have been several recent media articles about high profile people espousing their personal position on social matters, and some of the criticisms that they have received for doing so. Regardless of whether their position is one that is agreed with, I was quite surprised by the ferocity of the view that people should be ‘checking their personal Values at the door’ when coming to work – whether that be physically, virtually, or a hybrid of working arrangements. 

It is fascinating to think that in a world where people are seeking greater connection with and authenticity in their workplace, that making a distinction between personal and professional workplace Values is considered essential to being successful in the workplace. 

The title of this blog is about Knowing your Values, a nuance on knowing your value which is the subject of a whole other blog. This is about being aware of and understanding the impact your personal Values, not just in the workplace but in all facets of your life. Many people can often recite the Values of the organisation but not necessarily any of their own. 

When was the last time you checked in on your personal Values? 

Mine are Ethical, Integrity, and Respect. These drive my behaviours, principles, and expectations in all facets of my life, not just the workplace. The Values of Nic Willis Consulting are Safety focus, Customer focus, Integrity, and Community; not hard to see how well we fit together from a Values perspective. 

There are other things that are important too, so having personal Values is not at the exclusion of others, they are also not an explicit alignment tool that every organisation you are involved in must be completely aligned. The most misconception is that if the organisation’s Values are different to yours, then you will not be a fit for that organisation or it for you. The reality is that unless the organisation has a culture or behaviours that are at odds with your personal Values, then it is only a matter of understanding the organisational behaviours associated with their Values and how you will recognise when they are not occurring; as well as understanding what your behaviours are like when acting in accordance with your Values. 

Sounds simple, only if you know your own personal Values… 

Typically, there are three steps to understanding your own Values, firstly working through determining what they are in a logical manner – ending up with a shopping list of Values is not a true reflection of what Values really are. Then exploring how they work for you in terms of your own behaviours and expectations, and that of others in your life. Finally, understanding how your personal Values can work in synergy with the Values of an organisation. 

Sounds like a lot, so if you want to explore these steps, we are available to coach and guide you through this process. 

Remember too, your Values, whilst core to your life, can and will evolve over time, and that is OK! It is about growth as a person.