I contend that the secret sauce of every great organization is inherent in its guiding principles—it is what differentiates one organization from another and it is what ultimately determines the organization’s trajectory, like the rudder of a ship.

So, what are the guiding principles that are determining the trajectory of your organization?

If you have taken the time to define them, good for you, you are one of the few organizations that has done so. Remember, however, that guiding principles are more evident in the actions of your people than in the words you put on paper or the posters you hang on the wall.

The challenge with guiding principles is that once you define them your organization will be held to the higher standard outlined in your principles. Maybe that is why most organizations do not take the time to define a set of guiding principles, although that is simply fallacious thinking. 

Defining guiding principles is not just an exercise so you can check the HR box. Defining guiding principles is an important step of providing your organization with a greater sense of purpose and identity, elements that have been proven to provide people with a greater sense of intrinsic motivation, direction and affinity with the organization.

When you define your guiding principles be careful that you select elements that are inherent and core to your organization. Don’t simply choose a number of aspirational or “permission-to-play” principles, like: honesty, integrity, etc.

Your guiding principles need to be things that are already inherent to your organization, but which you want to honor, recognize, and ensure greater consistency. 

Your guiding principles also need to be non-negotiable—you must be willing to sacrifice other things, like money, time, comfort, etc. before you compromise your principles.

Once you define your guiding principles and live them consistently they will guide the behaviors of your people and they will become baked into your culture and motivate those actions for which your organization will be known and valued by others…leading to greater customer loyalty and higher employee retention.

Don’t leave your organization rudderless. Carve out time to define your guiding principles. The effort will pay ongoing dividends and it is something that will define you as a leader!

Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.