When it comes to the business of workplace culture and morale, sharing values is critical. If employees have certain shared beliefs, that sense of belonging becomes tangible. This article shares the five core values that drive a successful workplace.

1. Compassion

A workplace values compassion is one where employees feel cared for and supported. This type of workplace is typically more collaborative and productive. In a compassionate workplace, employees are treated with respect, and their individual needs are considered. This can lead to a reduction in stress levels and increase job satisfaction.

Compassionate workplaces typically have policies in place to support employees during difficult times. For example, they may offer paid time off for bereavement or allow flexible working arrangements during periods of illness. Employees may also be given access to counseling services or other forms of support.

These workplaces understand that their employees are human beings with lives outside of work. This means they are willing to work with employees to accommodate personal commitments and schedule changes. In general, compassionate workplaces create employees feel valued and respected.

2. Accountability

Accountability means taking responsibility for your actions and being accountable to others. It is an important quality in the workplace, as it helps build trust between employees and managers. Responsible employees are more likely to be trusted by their managers and seen as valuable team members.

Managers who are accountable to their employees are more likely to be respected. Employees need to know that their managers take responsibility for their actions and decisions. This helps to build a feeling of trust and mutual respect.  

When everyone in the workplace is held accountable for their actions, it creates a culture of responsibility and mutual respect. This can help to improve communication and collaboration between employees and managers. It can also help to improve the overall productivity of the workplace.

3. Healthy Competition

Healthy competition is a core value of a vital workplace. The competition encourages employees to do their best and strive for success. It also helps to create a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among employees.

The healthy competition also fosters innovation and creativity. Employees are always looking for ways to one-up their competition, leading to new and better ideas. This spirit of invention is what helps businesses to grow and thrive.

Of course, the healthy competition must be balanced with other core values such as cooperation and collaboration. Too much competition can lead to conflict and disharmony. But when it is managed correctly, healthy competition can be a powerful force for good in the workplace.

4. Personal Growth & Wellness

One of the essential core values of a vital workplace is personal growth. Employees should feel like they are constantly learning and expanding their skillset. An important workplace will allow employees to learn new things and grow in their careers.

Personal growth doesn't just happen on an employee's own time. A vital workplace will create an environment where employees can learn from each other. Collaboration is key to personal growth. Employees can share knowledge and ideas that help everyone grow.

A commitment to personal growth shows that a workplace cares about its employees. Moreover, it sets the tone for an environment of mutual respect and trust. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more likely to be engaged and productive.

5. Equality  

Equality is more than just a lack of discrimination based on traits like sexuality, gender, and race. Within the workplace, equality is a commitment to self-reflection and change. No workplace will be perfect, but the best places to work will be environments where learning and growth are encouraged. When there’s a problem with discrimination or equality, it should be addressed with as little conflict as possible.

Diversity should be seen as an asset, not an obstacle or something that’s not worth acknowledging. Employees should feel heard and respected.

Conclusion

A vital workplace is built on five core values: Compassion, Accountability, Healthy Competition, Personal Growth & Wellness, and Equality.

When you choose the values that will guide your workplace, it is essential to consider the purpose behind those values. What do you want your workplace to stand for? What kind of culture do you want to create?

Your values should be more than just a list of essential things to you. They should reflect the kind of workplace you want to create. They should be meaningful and impactful.

When you have a clear purpose for your values, it will be easier to communicate them to your team and get everyone on board. In addition, your team will be more likely to buy into your values if they understand the why behind them.