Lewis Cracknell

In my view, a value should possess the strength to stand on its own, embodying a principle that is nearly unquestionable.

A quote I recently came across said, “Speed isn’t conducive to wisdom,” and it resonated deeply with me. This notion highlights that values or virtues like speed can’t stand alone. The term “speed” prompts numerous questions—what kind of speed? In what context? How quick? Speed fails the test of standing independently.

Among the top corporate values of U.S. companies are:

• Integrity
• Innovation
• Customer Focus
• Teamwork

Values like integrity and trust are inherently strong and self-sufficient.

Integrity, for instance, emphasises honesty and ethical behavior, ensuring a foundation of trust and moral principles in all actions. It’s a value that needs no further explanation.

Customer Focus is self-explanatory—prioritizing the customer should be at the heart of everything a company does. It signifies a commitment to delivering exceptional service and building lasting relationships.

Innovation speaks to the ambition and technical prowess of a company. It represents a commitment to creativity, continuous improvement, and staying ahead in a competitive landscape.

Teamwork highlights the importance of collaboration and collective success. This value fosters a culture where diverse skills and perspectives come together to achieve common goals.

When values serve as a company’s guiding principles and standards, they must be clear and resistant to misinterpretation. They should inspire confidence and clarity, guiding every decision and action within the organisation.