YES

Core values and standards, should be at the heart of any business because they define who we are, how we work, what we believe in and what we stand for.  My core values and standards are intrinsically linked to the 22 years I spent in the military:

• Commitment
• Courage
• Discipline
• Respect for Others
• Integrity
• Loyalty

Although, the above core values and standards are written with a military force in mind they are equally relevant in business.

Commitment – personal commitment to the business, to be prepared to do whatever is needed whenever and wherever required and to do the very best we can do at all times.

Courage – courage creates strength.  Being in business, regardless of the size of the business can be a tough and lonely place.  We need physical courage to carry on and the morale courage to do what is right.

Discipline – a high degree of self-discipline earns respect from our staff, colleagues and our clients. It helps us to cope with difficult actions.

Respect for Others – it is important to recognise that in business and in life generally it is important to show the greatest level of respect for others, tolerance, understanding and compassion for others regardless of backgrounds.  Leadership and teamwork depend on it and we all have a fundamental right to be expect to be treated with the same degree of respect and integrity.

Integrity – this quality in an individual encompasses honesty, sincerity, reliability and unselfishness.  Unless we maintain our integrity, others will not trust us and it although it is not always easy, doing the right thing will always earn us respect.

Loyalty – bringing together commitment, dedication and support, businesses should be loyal to their staff, their clients and their brand.  If we can do this, even when a situation is uncomfortable then the partnership/relationship should be a long and rewarding one.

As a Business Owner, I recently created my own Client Charter, explaining to my clients what they could expect from me and in return what I expected from them.  Although, my core values and standards were not listed as they are above, they underpin each of the statements in my Client Charter.

 

I would love to hear below in the comments box what core values and standards you have in your business.  For more information on how we can help you and bring our core values and standards to your business, to help you achieve your goals then please call Amanda on 01202 872061 or email [email protected].