What are core values, anyway?
A very important part of being an entrepreneur and building a strong brand is understanding why you do what you do. It sounds obvious, but before we get into why they’re important you may be asking yourself …
What the heck are core values, anyway?
The simplest way to explain them is this,
Your brand’s core values are actionable words or sentences that represent what your brand stands for and what you want it to be known for.
Yep, that’s it. If you take the time to identify who you are and what you (and your brand) stands for you will attract people who appreciate and resonate with those same values.
Why are they so important?
Core values are very important to your brands success because they invite clients and customers into the heart and soul of your brand. Additionally, they create focus and consistency (which is CRUCIAL for successful branding), build trust and respect with your clients, and help you feel confident about your brand because you know you’re standing behind something you BELIEVE IN.
One major perk of having strong core values is that they communicate your character and commitment to your brand. This helps build an emotional connection with your clients, followers or readers, which helps a TON with marketing to attract your ideal client. For example if your core value is ‘Client Focused’ then your marketing can include ‘Excellent Customer Service’, because that’s something you know is REALLY important to you and it’s a value that you’ll be able to maintain.
Another added bonus here is that core values can help with streamlining your business. If your core value is ‘create high quality products’ then you can strive to produce (or get rid of) products that consistently meet ( or don’t meet ) your high standards. Ultimately core values are the guidelines for how you’re going to run your business.
Lastly, clearly defined core values can be shared with employees, contributors and partnerships so you stay on track as you work towards a common goal.
Things to remember when creating them
The core values you choose for your brand are often consistent with your personal values, so it’s important to be true to yourself and NOT do what everyone else is doing. Identifying and living up to them can set you apart from the crowd. It’s one way you can show the world what you stand for and help them relate to you on a deeper level.
Here are some questions you can ask yourself that will help you define your core values:
What are you excited about?
What drives you as an entrepreneur?
How do you want to influence others?
Some things to keep in mind here are to make sure that your values are memorable, actionable, short, and concise. Also, remember that core values can change and evolve over time as you and your business grow, so don’t forget to reevaluate them…especially if you begin feeling detached from your brand.
Examples of core values:
Ethical sourced, quality products
promote diversity and equality
Environmentally safe
cruelty free
organic and healthy
Spread awareness
Pursue happiness and fulfillment
Transparency
Strong communication
Build a life and brand that serves others
Teaching and motivating others to succeed
Growing a community of like minded people
Providing affordable quality
Be passionate and have a positive outlook
Be creative and strive for growth
Beautify a space with artwork
What core values do you stand for? Share in the comments below.
