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Situations where your core values most closely align with customers and their needs will always result in a higher level of success. Small business owners and entrepreneurs often all into the trap of taking on any project or client that comes along. Often this happens out of fear that something that is a better fit may not come their way. So, they agree to do the project even if the new opportunity doesn’t align with their core values.
What are core values?
In a chaotic world where constant, rapid change is fast becoming the norm, it is important for companies, even solo-preneurs, to be clear about their core values. Core values are the things that are most important to you in all situations, both personal and business. They are things that are absolute musts for you. They are as natural to you as breathing and just as important. Core values come from the heart. They steady the ship and steer the organization in a direction that is most comfortable for them.
Know what your core values are.
Know your core values and apply them to appropriate clients and projects. Use this important prism when considering your target market or an available project. It will allow you to do your very best work, and be satisfied in the process. For some companies, being risk-adverse is a core value. A cautious, conservative approach for them is routine. For others, being highly creative and innovative are core values. Operating in an environment of out-of-the-box thinking allows them to provide highly creative, cutting edge solutions for their customers. Yet other companies insist that all business transactions are handled at the highest levels of honesty and integrity.
Some entrepreneurs can’t imagine taking on a client or project that inhibits their artistic and creative juices. Others place high value on the ability to make all decisions in execution of a project, or working with exceptional teams. For best results, clients or projects should allow the freedom and ability to provide products or services based on those core values that you and your organization hold dear. To do otherwise would not feel normal, or a sign of business success.
Now is the time to identify and share your core values.
There is no time like the present to identify your core values. Then, set them down in writing, and share them with your staff or team. Set aside some time to jot down a list of what things are important to you in all facets of your life. Core values in your personal life will naturally overlap into your business life.
The Zappos ‘family’ provides a simple list of the ten core values they embrace in running their highly successful company. Once you’ve completed this exercise, be sure that everyone in your firm is informed. These values represent the basis for anything they do within or outside your business. Add them at the beginning of your strategic plan, right after your Vision and Mission. Alert anyone in business development or sales for your firm to use these core values as their primary prism. Use them to focus on the next ideal project or target audience of clients and customers.
