Aligning Organizational Values with Personal Values: A Guide for Entrepreneurs and Employees

Organizations do not have values—they are comprised of individuals, who, it is often said, lie like dogs.

But how are an organization's values supposed to align with your personal values if these individuals do not always live up to their stated intentions? This article delves into the importance of organizational values, the discrepancies between stated values and actual behavior, and provides practical advice for individuals to ensure alignment.

Understanding Organizational Values

Organizational values represent the beliefs, principles, and standards that guide an organization's actions and decisions. They are often expressed in mission statements, core values, and corporate culture. At face value, these values strive to outline what an organization stands for and aims to achieve.

Stated vs. Actual Values

Frequently, the reality does not match the stated values. For instance, a corporate mission statement may claim, 'Our mission is to transfer as much money as possible from the many to the few,' or 'Our shareholders come first.' By their very nature, such statements reveal a gap between the values proclaimed and the values that drive day-to-day operations.

Why is this gap important to close? Because personal values and organizational values should resonate with one another. When they do not, it can lead to significant personal dissatisfaction, job burnout, and ethical dilemmas. So, how can you navigate this discrepancy and ensure personal and organizational values align?

Key Steps to Achieving Alignment

1. Self-Reflection

Self-reflection is the first step in aligning personal and organizational values. Take time to articulate your core values, what matters most to you, and what kind of professional environment you thrive in. Common personal values include integrity, creativity, social responsibility, and work-life balance. By understanding your own values, you can better evaluate an organization's fit for you.

2. Research and Due Diligence

Thoroughly research the organization's values and culture. Look beyond the glossy mission statements and focus on how these values are reflected in real-life situations. Check employee reviews, read financial reports, and engage with people who work for or have worked at the company. Pay close attention to whether the company's actions and practices align with their publicly stated values.

3. Interview Preparation

When interviewing for a position, bring a set of questions to uncover the organization's values and culture. Ask about past organizational challenges and how they were addressed, the company's approach to ethical dilemmas, and how they integrate employee input in their decision-making processes. These insights can provide valuable information on whether the company values align with your own.

4. Continuous Evaluation

Even if you find a strong initial alignment, regularly evaluate your fit within the organization. Organizations can change, and external factors like financial performance can impact their values over time. Keep an open dialogue with your superiors and peers, and be prepared to discuss any discrepancies you may encounter.

Ethical Considerations and the Future

As organizations continue to evolve, so too do the ethical considerations surrounding their values. There is a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and social responsibility. Companies that fail to meet these standards risk losing both employees and customers.

Therefore, it's crucial to stay informed on industry trends and ethical issues. Supporting organizations with strong ethical frameworks is not just a personal choice but a critical factor in building a sustainable and impactful career.

Conclusion

Organizational values are deeply intertwined with an individual's personal values. Ensuring alignment is essential for job satisfaction, ethical integrity, and long-term career success. By following the steps outlined above, individuals can make informed decisions about their professional journeys and find meaningful and fulfilling career paths.