The alignment of employee values with company goals has emerged as a key driver for fostering a motivated and engaged workforce. In this article, we dive into the transformative impact of purpose-driven work environments and explore some strategies to align individual values with broader organisational objectives. A clear link between personal values and company goals must be in place to maintain employee wellbeing and productivity. However, with 52% of employees saying they don’t know their organisation’s vision, it is evident that not all organisations achieve this link seamlessly.
Understanding Employee Values
The core values of an employee are one of the most important things to them. These beliefs make up their view on the world, likeliness to commit to an assigned task and shape how aligned with a company culture they can ultimately be. For example if you hire someone with sustainable values to work for a fast fashion brand, you will never receive 100% of their buy-in to the company as their values around sustainability don’t match the brands and what the business is all about. Core values matter to employees as they give them a foundation for decision-making. These make people unique and highlight how well-suited they will be to achieving company goals. If employees feel empowered by their purpose in achieving an objective, their engagement levels will be consistently higher.
Defining Company Goals and Purpose
Employees who feel connected to a larger mission are more likely to show higher commitment, dedication, and passion for their work. Organisations that prioritise purpose over profit alone tend to attract and retain top talent, fostering a positive and innovative workplace culture. 
To harness the power of purpose, companies need to establish a culture that emphasises values. Leaders play a pivotal role in articulating and embodying these values, setting the tone for the entire organisation. Transparent communication about the company’s mission and its alignment with broader societal values helps employees see their role in a larger context.
The Benefits of Aligning Company Goals With Employee Values
As well as the increased likelihood of goals being met and employee wellbeing improving, there are many other advantages of aligning employee values with company goals: Aligning company goals with employee values brings about a heap of benefits. This alignment creates a sense of shared purpose and direction, instilling a deep commitment within the workforce. When employees identify with the organisation’s goals on a personal level, their motivation and engagement skyrocket, resulting in increased productivity and innovation. The right alignment between company objectives and individual values fosters a positive workplace culture, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. The sense of fulfilment derived from contributing to a shared mission not only boosts morale, but fuels a collaborative and cohesive team dynamic. Ultimately, companies that prioritise aligning their goals with employee values not only witness improved performance but also cultivate a resilient and dedicated workforce ready to navigate challenges with a shared sense of purpose.
- Employees are more likely to be engaged at all levels, not just concerned with company goals. This offers other improvements, such as a strong company culture and a unique competitive advantage.
- Relationships between employers and employees are strengthened, this means better retention, more transparency, and quick problem-solving processes.
- Leaders can also work more confidently knowing that their teams are more likely to achieve the desired results. This means that other aspects of their role can also be focused on, not just spending their time monitoring employee performance.
- Motivation levels will be higher, which, aside from efficiency and productivity, means more chances of new ideas being generated that can lead to greater business performance.
The cost of a misaligned workforce can impact a business financially and culturally. Several negative repercussions will be experienced as a result. Some impacts include workplace tension, missed deadlines, employee friction, increased absences such as burnout, and can even result in a negative company image.
How to Spot Misalignments in Employee and Employer Values
The cost of a misaligned workforce can impact a business financially and culturally. Several negative repercussions will be experienced as a result. Some impacts include workplace tension, missed deadlines, employee friction, increased absences such as burnout, and can even result in a negative company image. Here are some common signs there is a mismatch between employer and employee values:
- Employee Dissatisfaction:
Expressions of discontent or frustration from employees may signal misalignments. Pay attention to feedback in surveys, performance reviews, or informal conversations to gauge sentiments.
- High Turnover Rates:
If employees are leaving the organisation at an elevated rate, it may suggest that their personal values are not in sync with the company’s mission or culture.
- Communication Breakdown:
Frequent misunderstandings or miscommunications between employees and management may indicate a misalignment in expectations and values. Open lines of communication are crucial for bridging gaps and addressing concerns.
- Inconsistent Performance:
If there’s a decline in individual or team performance, it could be a manifestation of misalignment. Misaligned values may affect an employee’s motivation and commitment to achieving organisational objectives.
Methods To Create Alignment
Alignment is possible for all businesses with clever planning and company-wide awareness. Some methods to create alignment through transparency and effective goal planning are : Creating alignment between employee values and company goals is a strategic process that involves thoughtful initiatives and ongoing efforts. Here are effective methods to foster alignment within the workplace:
Open communication is vital for building trust and ensuring that employees understand how their individual contributions contribute to the larger organisational objectives. Regularly communicate updates, changes, and successes to keep everyone informed and engaged.
Ensure all team members are involved in goal setting. Actively seek input from employees when setting goals and making strategic decisions. Involving employees in the decision-making process fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the company’s success.
Focus on company culture at every opportunity by offering benefits and recognition that suit the values the workforce will hold as important.
Ensure that senior leaders perform by example and embody the values needed to elevate a company and meet the objectives of specified goals.
Ensure individual objectives align with the overall company goal; this not only ensures that employees know their work is leading to the greater good of the business but also helps create a culture of alignment resulting in stronger connections in the future.
Acknowledge and celebrate employees who exemplify the company’s values and contribute significantly to its mission. Recognition reinforces the importance of aligning personal values with organisational goals.
In summary
In the ever-evolving business landscape, the power of purpose cannot be overstated. Organisations that actively cultivate an environment where employee values align with company goals benefit from a more engaged and motivated workforce. By embracing the transformative potential of purpose, businesses can create a sustainable and fulfilling workplace that propels them towards long-term success.
At There Be Giants, we specialise in creating the right environments for employees to thrive, from helping a company define their values to setting goals that meet the workforce’s strengths.
Contact us today to learn more and to discuss how we could elevate the power of purpose in your company.
Cultivate the right culture for OKRs