Values on the wall, Behaviours in the hall – How embedding values can improve morale and productivity
77% of employees consider a company’s culture before applying for a job, and 56% prioritise a company’s culture over salary (Glassdoor, Forbes).
In today's dynamic business environment, company values play a pivotal role in shaping organisational culture and driving scalable growth. These core values are not just abstract ideals; they are fundamental to attracting and retaining talent that aligns with the company’s mission, ultimately fostering a cohesive and productive workforce.
Enhancing Organisational Culture
Strong organisational culture rooted in clearly defined values has numerous benefits. A positive culture enhances employee engagement, with employees who view their organisation's culture favorably being 3.8 times more likely to be engaged at work. Engaged employees contribute to higher productivity, better performance, and increased profitability—up to 23% higher profits compared to those with lower engagement levels.
Additionally, a strong culture can significantly reduce turnover rates. Employees are more likely to stay with a company if its values align with their own. Studies have shown that 31% of employees who left their jobs did so because the company’s mission no longer aligned with their values, and 55% of employees would leave if the organisational culture did not match their personal values and expectations (Built In).
Attracting Top Talent
Company values are crucial in attracting top talent. In a competitive job market, candidates prioritise cultural fit, with 86% of job seekers considering culture somewhat or very important in their decision-making process (Robert Walters). Companies that effectively communicate their values and culture through their recruitment process tend to attract candidates who are not only skilled but also passionate about the organisation’s mission.
To ensure cultural alignment, organisations should integrate their values into every aspect of the recruitment process. This includes highlighting values in job descriptions, assessing cultural fit during interviews, and involving current employees in the hiring process to provide candidates with authentic insights into the company culture.
Supporting Scalability
A well-defined and authentic set of core values supports scalability by creating a unified direction for growth. Companies with strong cultures are 89% more likely to report high customer satisfaction and are 48% more likely to see revenue increases. This alignment between values and operational goals ensures that as the company scales, it maintains the cultural integrity that drives performance and innovation.
Moreover, integrating values into onboarding processes helps new employees quickly adapt and contribute to the organisational culture. Effective onboarding, coupled with mentorship programs, ensures that new hires feel connected to the company’s mission, leading to higher retention and overall job satisfaction.
Conclusion
Company values are more than just statements; they are integral to building a thriving organisational culture and supporting scalable growth. By attracting and retaining talent that aligns with these values, organisations can ensure a cohesive, engaged, and productive workforce, ultimately driving long-term success.
