When Your Organisation Shifts Values: What to Do?

When did employers, corporates and other institutions start imposing their values on employees and for that matter customers and clients? This behaviour is now a prominent feature of everyday life and interactions in the world of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance). If customers and clients feel the values’ difference is too great, they find another business to deal with. Some employers make very specific statements on the values and causes they support right from the get go. Clearly setting out company values and how they are expressed can be a selling point when recruiting. Employers may also recruit making specific and reasonable requests for employees to support ethical, moral and faith based values. But what happens when the shift happens after you have been engaged? For employees the shift in values is more complicated to manage. It has been interesting watching this evolve and hearing the private conversations about how workplaces are becoming increasingly uncomfortable for employees who may have a different view to the company line. 

When an organisation undergoes a shift in values or becomes more overt and public about its support for issues, it can have a significant impact on employees and the overall work culture. What do you do? We need to acknowledge that for some employees even seeking clarification on the employer's values direction may well expose them to unfair scrutiny and have them labelled as “not a team player”. Here are some steps to consider when your organisation experiences a shift in values:

1. Understand the change: Take the time to understand the reasons behind the shift in values. This may involve having conversations with leadership, attending company meetings or presentations, or reviewing official communications. Understanding the motivations behind the change can help you navigate the transition effectively.

2. Reflect on personal values: Reflect on your own values and how they align with the new direction of the organisation. Consider whether the shift in values resonates with you and whether you can continue to find meaning and purpose in your work within the new framework. This reflection will help you evaluate your own alignment with the organisation's direction.

3. Seek clarification: If the shift in values is unclear or ambiguous, seek clarification from leadership or human resources. Ask for specific examples or guidelines that can help you understand how the new values should be applied in your day-to-day work. This will help you gain a clearer understanding of the expectations and how you can adapt to the changes.

4. Embrace the change: If the new values align with your personal beliefs and goals, embrace the change and actively support the new direction. Look for opportunities to contribute to the implementation of the new values and demonstrate your commitment to the organisation's vision. This can include participating in training programs, sharing feedback, or taking on new responsibilities that align with the new values.

5. Voice concerns constructively: If you have concerns or reservations about the shift in values, it's important to communicate them constructively. Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR representative to express your thoughts and ask questions in a respectful manner. This can help foster open dialogue and potentially address any issues or misunderstandings.

6. Evaluate your fit: If the shift in values fundamentally conflicts with your own beliefs and you find it challenging to align with the new direction, it may be necessary to evaluate your fit within the organisation. Consider whether the new values are compatible with your long-term career goals and overall job satisfaction. This evaluation can help you make informed decisions about your future within the organisation.

7. Explore alternative options: If you find that the shift in values is not conducive to your personal and professional growth, you may need to explore alternative options. This can include seeking opportunities within the organisation that align better with your values, considering a role in a different department or team, or exploring career opportunities outside the organisation that better align with your values and goals.

Think critically. Identify and understand your own values and be prepared to articulate them. Be respectful. You were employed for your skills and experience. At present your moral and ethical views, thinking and how you vote are a private matter.