Putting Your Company Values into Action: The Power of Working Agreements
Have you ever worked for a company that proudly displayed its values, but you couldn’t see those values reflected in your everyday work? You’re not alone. In fact, a staggering 80% of employees work for organizations that have stated values, but only 23% feel that they can actually apply those values in their day-to-day tasks.
The Disconnect Between Stated Values and Actual Practice
Let’s face it, having values plastered on the walls or mentioned in company meetings is not enough to create a culture that truly embodies those values. There is often a disconnect between what organizations say they value and how those values are actually put into action.
As employees, we want to work in an environment where our values align with the company’s values. We want to feel that our work is meaningful and that we are contributing to something greater than ourselves. But when there is a gap between stated values and actual practice, it can lead to frustration, disengagement, and a lack of trust in leadership.
The Power of Working Agreements
So, how can leaders bridge this gap and create a culture where values are not just words on a wall, but are actually lived and breathed by every employee? The answer lies in working agreements.
Working agreements are a more effective way for leaders to foster shared understanding, language, and accountability in their organizations. These agreements take implicit practices, behaviors, values, and beliefs, and make them explicit, clear, and actionable. They provide a framework for teams to align their actions with the organization’s values and goals.
Building Shared Language
One of the key benefits of working agreements is that they help teams build a shared language. When everyone is on the same page and understands the meaning behind the values, it becomes easier to communicate and collaborate effectively. Shared language creates a sense of unity and cohesion within the team, leading to better teamwork and productivity.
Creating Understanding
Working agreements also promote understanding among team members. By explicitly stating the expected behaviors and practices, everyone knows what is expected of them and how they should contribute to the team’s success. This clarity reduces misunderstandings and conflicts, fostering a more harmonious and productive work environment.
Ensuring Accountability
Lastly, working agreements hold everyone accountable for their actions. When expectations are clearly defined, it becomes easier to assess individual and team performance. If someone is not living up to the agreed-upon behaviors, it can be addressed and corrected in a constructive manner. This accountability ensures that the organization’s values are upheld and that everyone is working towards the same goals.
Conclusion
Creating working agreements is a powerful way to bridge the gap between stated values and actual practice in organizations. By making implicit values explicit and actionable, leaders can foster a culture where everyone is aligned and accountable. So, if you want to put your company values into action, it’s time to start creating working agreements.
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