In the fast-paced world of business, a company’s success often hinges on its corporate culture. A robust corporate culture is like the heart of an organisation, driving its people to excel and creating an environment where everyone flourishes.
This means becoming a Values Based Organisation. According to SHRM, ‘a values-based organisation (VBO) is a living, breathing culture of shared core values among all employees. This is different from the traditional structure which is a more machine-like, business approach that focuses on an authoritarian type relationship or rigid organisational structure.’
One effective way to build and sustain a strong corporate culture through core values is by the use of Values Awards – a recognition program that not only celebrates achievements but also reinforces the core values that define the company.
In a corporate scenario where mostly performance and achievements are awarded, it is crucial that Values Awards are recognised as the game changer for the success of the company. Companies like Cisco, Google, Salesforce among many others have emerged as the kingpins in maintaining a strong corporate culture by recognising employees who embody the core values of the company.
Corporate Culture: More Than Just a Buzzword
Before we dive into the discussion, let’s understand what corporate culture really means. It’s not just a buzzword thrown around in business seminars – it’s the soul of your organisation. Corporate culture encompasses the shared values, beliefs, and behaviours that define how employees interact with each other and approach their work. It is created by consistently following desired behaviours.
Think of corporate culture as the DNA of your company. It shapes the way decisions are made, how conflicts are resolved, and even influences the dress code. In simpler terms, it’s the personality of your workplace.
When cultivated thoughtfully, a positive corporate culture becomes a magnet for talent, increases employee engagement, and leads to sustainable growth.
The Role of Core Values: the North Star
Values are the North Star of your organisation, providing a moral compass for decision-making and actions. They are the principles that guide behaviour, shaping the company’s identity and influencing how it is perceived by both internal and external stakeholders.
These values aren’t just fancy words on posters; they’re the pillars that support the corporate culture.
For example:
If integrity is a core value, employees are expected to be honest and transparent in their dealings.
If innovation is valued, employees are encouraged to think creatively and embrace change.
If continuous learning is a core value, employees are encouraged to identify areas for skill improvement and actively seek opportunities to enhance their abilities.
If humility is a core value, employees are expected to approach their work and interactions with modesty and a willingness to learn from others.
What are Values Awards?
Recognition is the most important pathway towards building a strong corporate culture.
Values Awards are awards that go beyond acknowledging mere achievements; they celebrate individuals who uphold and embody the company’s values. By recognizing and rewarding employees who demonstrate the desired behaviours, Values Awards serve as powerful tools for positively reinforcing this desired behaviour.
Because ‘making the workplace awesome is not a 9-to-5 job’.
Imagine an employee who consistently goes above and beyond to help her colleagues and exemplifies teamwork. A Values Award in the category of “Collaboration Champion” not only recognizes her efforts but also sends a clear message to the entire team about how much the organisation values collaboration.
Whatever your organisation’s core values may be, recognise the person who upholds these values and build a robust corporate culture.
The Ripple Effect
Apart from Culture Reinforcement, that is, building and maintaining a positive and values-driven organisational culture, implementing a recognition program with Values Awards can offer several other advantages for organisations. Here are some key benefits:
Alignment with Organisational Values: Core Values Awards ensure that recognition is directly tied to the organisation’s fundamental principles and beliefs. This alignment reinforces the importance of these values and helps to integrate them into the company culture.
Reinforcement of Desired Behaviours: By recognizing employees who exemplify core values, the program reinforces the behaviours and actions that contribute to the company’s success. This creates a positive feedback loop, encouraging others to follow suit.
Employee Engagement: When employees are recognized for embodying core values, they are likely to feel more engaged and connected to the organisation. Recognition fosters a sense of pride and purpose in one’s work, which can enhance overall job satisfaction.
Motivation and Morale Boost: Being acknowledged for living up to core values can significantly boost employee motivation and morale. It reinforces a sense of accomplishment and affirms that individual contributions are integral to the company’s success.
Attraction and Retention of Talent: A recognition program that highlights core values can be a powerful tool for attracting and retaining top talent. Prospective employees are drawn to organisations with strong values, and existing employees are more likely to stay in a positive and values-aligned workplace.
Promotion of a Positive Work Environment: Core Values Awards contribute to a positive work environment by celebrating positive behaviours. This creates a workplace where employees feel valued and appreciated, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
Examples of Values Awards
The Innovation Trailblazer
Innovation is the something that keeps organisations ahead of the curve. Create an award that celebrates the brains behind those groundbreaking ideas. Whether it’s a brainstorming guru or the office tech wizard, make sure to recognize those who turn “What if?” into “We did it!”
The Collaboration Champion
Foster a collaborative spirit by acknowledging the team players who go above and beyond. This award isn’t just about completing projects; it’s about making everyone around them better. After all, teamwork makes the dream work.
The Culture Crusader
Some people are born culture enthusiasts. They live and breathe the values that make your workplace special. Recognize these culture champions who take it upon themselves to organise team-building events, celebrate birthdays, and turn Mondays into the highlight of the week.
The Adventurous Achiever
Awarded to the team member who fearlessly embraces challenges, explores new opportunities, and consistently brings a sense of adventure to the workplace. This honours the spirit of those who dare to step outside the comfort zone, pushing boundaries for the collective growth of the team.
Customer Delight Dynamo
Celebrates the individual who consistently goes above and beyond to create delightful experiences for customers. Whether it’s through exceptional service, personalised interactions, or innovative solutions, this award recognizes those who leave a lasting positive impression on the customer journey.
Wellness Warrior
Acknowledges the employee who actively promotes and participates in wellness initiatives, contributing to a healthy and vibrant workplace. This award honours individuals who prioritise well-being, encouraging a positive work-life balance, and inspiring others to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Inclusion Ambassador
Recognizes the team member who champions diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where every voice is heard and valued. This award celebrates those who actively contribute to creating a workplace culture that embraces differences, promotes equity, and ensures everyone feels included.
Sustainability Star
Celebrates the employee who actively contributes to sustainability initiatives within the organisation. Whether it’s reducing environmental impact, promoting eco-friendly practices, or initiating green projects, this award recognizes those dedicated to fostering a culture of corporate responsibility.
Building a robust corporate culture is an ongoing journey, not a destination. Values Awards provide a dynamic and effective means to celebrate achievements, reinforce core values, and nurture a workplace where employees thrive.
So, why not implement a Values Awards program that reflects the unique personality of your organisation? Celebrate and embrace the values, and create a culture that not only survives but thrives in the ever-changing business landscape.
Reach out to Pinnacle and explore how we can help you create amazing options for your Values Awards, breathing life into your corporate culture.
