The Value of Values: The Amplified Role of Authenticity in an Increasingly Transparent World

Abstract

Abstract

The topic of values is gaining more and more attention on a number of levels: organizational, personal, community, societal and political. At an organizational level, the values define what the organization stands for and how it is seen and experienced by customers and other stakeholders (employees, service partners, suppliers and communities). Values act as guiding principles—as a behavioural and decision-making compass. If these values are not embraced and displayed by everybody representing the organization, there is a likelihood that customers will, at best, be confused and, at worst, not trust what is being communicated through ‘official channels’. In today’s super connected, transparent world, the value of values is greater than ever before.