The topic of values arises in every company sooner or later. Long discussions in various media channels and sharing of stories on the topic has become a standard already. Whether values matter and why they are necessary – this is no longer an intriguing question for experienced leaders. A significantly larger amount of time is contributed to discussions on the development, implementation and revival or updating of values.
We are glad to share with you a short story on the creation of the new values of IMG Numeri through the eyes of Kadri Kangur, the Chairman of the Board of IMG Numeri.
IMG Numeri – professionalism in every aspect
Our former values – competence, accuracy and confidentiality – were in the minds and hearts of our employees. But I have to admit that they were covered with a light layer of dust and people remembered them rather when someone asked about them or when it was necessary to introduce the company to our clients and partners.
In summer, the management updated the mission and vision of the company, and the need for developing new values was not created artificially. We admitted that the time of the former values was up. In order to strengthen the culture and identity of the organisation, the management had already answered the questions “why” and “what”. However, implementation of the statements without strong values would have only been a slogan and good will, which for me was just a half of the formula. The content of the values – “how” we work together, what we value and care about – was of key importance. We had to determine and implement that together, so that the whole company could develop to the next level.
The Barrett model
In order to determine the new values, we used the Barrett model and the help of Henri Aaslav-Kaasik representing that. With a guide who has the required experience and knowledge, a process runs smoothly and we achieve the ultimate goal with optimum time contribution.
The stages of the process included:
- An extensive survey where from 100 values every employee could choose 10 personal ones, 10 current values of the organisation and 10 desired values for the organisation.
- Results of the analysis showing the conformities and/or differences of the values. We chose the values we should focus on and which should be thoroughly studied and developed.
- Work on the content in groups (consisting mainly of accountants). As a result of discussions and sharing of ideas, the key values discovered were elaborated, prioritised, and a meaning and substance were attributed to them, relying on examples of convictions and behaviours.
- Reflection on cooperation and values between the management and the work groups and summaries. The final step, at the initiative of the work groups, was a discussion on the wording of the new mission and vision (they became even shorter). And the good result ultimately surprised all the parties.
The new values of IMG Numeri are
Commitment to excellence
- We deliver trustworthy communication and cooperation
- We achieve efficiency with the help of modern solutions
- We value precision and time
Mutual growth
- We are open and curious
- We value and share experience
- We value learning and welcome feedback
- We notice and support each other
Positive mindset
- We see challenges as opportunities to develop
- We appriciate diverse opinions
- We encourage self-care and healthy lifestyle
- We keep an optimistic attitude
The topics discussed in the value workshops, the stories told and examples given were a new and enriching experience for the accountants. Stepping out of the daily work routine, thinking out of the box and giving important and extensive information a compact shape were challenging on the one part but the result and reward was a new and powerful emotion.
The most exciting times, however, are yet to come! Now it is time to start developing the culture of the organisation based on the new values. All that to enable our dedicated and satisfied employees create even more value, so that the company could operate in sustainable manner in the ever-changing environment and keep growing.