As the New Year begins, many companies are busy planning their strategies and setting goals for 2025 and beyond. But, how often do we pause and consider whether our company values, the very foundation of our culture and purpose, still align with the direction that we are heading in?

Company values are more than just words on a website or posters around the office, they are guiding principles that shape how we work, how we treat one another, and how we make decisions. Yet, as companies grow and adapt to a changing world, it is easy for values to drift out of sync with new goals or culture aspirations. So, how do you know if your values need a refresh, and how do you create or realign them effectively?

1. Reflect on the present by reviewing your existing values. Are they relevant? Are they being lived across all levels in the business? Spend some time to gather honest feedback from employees, leadership and stakeholders.
2. Engage your team in workshops or surveys to identify what matters most to them. What behaviours, principles or beliefs define their ideal workplace?
3. Align with the strategy by thinking about the company's broader vision and goals. What kind of culture and behaviours will help get you there? Ensure that your values can act as a bridge between present and future.
4. Be sure to keep it real, as values that feel overly generic, aspirational or disconnected from reality won't stick. Focus on what makes your business unique and meaningful.
5. Communicate and embed your values once they are defined, share them widely and clearly. It's important to not stop there, make sure you embed them in every part of the employee experience, from onboarding to performance reviews to recognition programs. 

Well aligned values do more than simply inspire employees, they create a sense of purpose, attract like-minded talent and foster decision-making that drives long-term success. When your values and goals are in harmony, the result is a thriving workplace where everyone feels connected and invested. 

At Fresh Seed, we’re all about bringing your company values to life in ways that truly matter. Whether it’s through our facilitated workshops, employee surveys, or tailored training and change support, we help businesses align their values with their culture and weave them seamlessly into everyday operations. By embedding values that resonate and drive positive change, you’ll create a workplace where everyone feels connected and inspired.

Curious about how we can help? Click the button below to get in touch, and let’s make 2025 the year your company values not only shine but thrive! 🌟