Building the Future of Your Organisation with Core Values and Beliefs

At KEVOS, we believe that core values are the driving force behind every successful organisation. They shape our culture, influence our decisions, and guide us toward achieving long-term goals. But to truly harness their power, we first need to understand the foundation of organisational beliefs.

Organisational Beliefs: The Foundation of Success

Beliefs are powerful. They are the deeply held convictions that shape how we think, act, and perform. For organisations, beliefs provide the framework for a shared understanding and collective mission. Organisational beliefs come in two forms:

• Internal Beliefs: These are individual perceptions that come from within. Each person forms these based on their personal experiences, values, and thoughts.

• External Beliefs: These come from outside influences, like the experiences of others, societal norms, and the opinions of peers or leaders.

To create a strong, cohesive organisation, you need to influence both types of beliefs. Think of it as a ripple effect: when you provide a clear reference point, backed by examples and shared experiences, you start to shape how individuals see the world. Over time, this becomes a core belief, and when everyone in your organisation shares that belief, it becomes a powerful driver of action and performance.

For example, in everyday life, we all know that Monday follows Sunday, and Tuesday comes after Monday. This isn't just a fact; it's a belief rooted in years of shared experience and observation. Similarly, in the workplace, if you build beliefs around your mission and goals, employees will internalise them and align their actions accordingly.

However, be cautious. If the reference points you use are incorrect or misaligned with your goals, they can create negative beliefs.

The Danger of Negative Beliefs

Negative beliefs can be just as powerful as positive ones—but they lead to stagnation and missed opportunities. Consider common sayings like "There's no use crying over spilled milk" or "What's done is done." While these may sound practical, they reinforce a mindset of inaction.

For example: In a government job, employees might develop a belief that nothing can disrupt their routine, such as taking a lunch break at exactly 1.30 pm—even if there's a critical patient waiting. This sense of "permanence" is a belief that can lead to inefficiency and poor customer service.

To counteract negative beliefs, it's crucial to actively cultivate positive organisational beliefs that align with your vision.

Core Values: The Pillars of Your Organisation

Once you’ve established the right beliefs, core values act as the pillars that uphold those beliefs. Core values are the fundamental principles that define how an organisation operates. They influence every decision, interaction, and action within your business.

Here are some key core values that organisations often embrace:

• Dependability: Always being reliable and trustworthy in delivering promises.

• Collaboration: Working together to achieve common goals.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new ways to improve and drive change.

• Customer-Centricity: Putting the customer at the heart of every decision.

• Efficiency: Ensuring tasks are completed in the most productive and cost-effective manner.

Let’s look at some well-known examples from leading brands:

• General Electric (GE): Passion for learning, commitment to results, and valuing every person’s contribution.

• Amazon: Customer obsession, ownership, and a drive for continuous improvement.

• Nike: Performance, authenticity, and innovation.

These values are more than words; they are the compass that guides these companies through every challenge and opportunity.

Bringing Core Values to Life in Your Organisation

At KEVOS, we encourage businesses to actively integrate core values into their daily operations. This means going beyond just listing them on your website or office walls. Here’s how to make them work for you:

1. Identify Your Core Values: Define the key principles that represent who you are as a business. For example, if you’re a customer-first organisation, make "Customer-Centricity" one of your core values. If teamwork is your strength, emphasise "Collaboration."

2. Communicate Your Core Values: Once identified, make sure your employees are familiar with these values. Repeat them often in meetings, newsletters, and training sessions to ensure everyone understands and embodies them.

3. Create a Story Around Your Values: Stories are a powerful way to reinforce beliefs. Just like how Prime Minister Narendra Modi created narratives around initiatives like Swachh Bharat or International Yoga Day, you can craft your own organisational story. For example, if your core value is "Sustainability," you might share the story of how your company is reducing its environmental impact and invite employees to contribute ideas.

4. Identify and Empower Your Gems: Every organisation has standout employees—people who embody your values and inspire others. At KEVOS, we call these individuals "gems." Identify them, train them, and empower them to be ambassadors for your values. These are the people who will spread your culture throughout the organisation.

5. Set Milestones and Actions: To make your values tangible, tie them to specific, measurable milestones. For instance, if "Customer-Centricity" is a core value, set a goal to improve customer satisfaction by 20% over the next six months. Outline the specific actions employees need to take, such as providing training on customer service or streamlining response times.

The Role of Core Values in Building Organisational Culture

Core values not only shape internal operations but also how customers perceive your brand. When your employees live out your values, it reflects in every customer interaction. Whether it’s a friendly greeting at the front desk or a swift resolution to a complaint, customers begin to associate your company with these positive experiences.

For example: Imagine walking into a company where everyone—from the receptionist to the CEO—works collaboratively and treats customers with respect and transparency. That impression forms the basis of trust, and over time, customers develop a belief in your company’s commitment to excellence.

Taking Your Organisation to the Next Level

In the long run, building the right beliefs and core values will create a strong organisational culture that sets you apart from the competition. Your employees will be more engaged, your customers more loyal, and your organisation more resilient in the face of challenges.

At KEVOS, we are here to help you define, implement, and live out your core values, taking your business to new heights. Let’s work together to craft the beliefs and values that will empower your team and inspire your customers.

Ready to build the future? Reach out to us to start shaping your organisation’s core values today!