Aligning Your Career with Your Values
Aligning Your Career with Your Values: A Guide to Finding Companies That Share Your Ethos
Why Aligning Your Career with Your Values Matters
There’s an upward trend which was accelerated by covid (work life blend matters) where many professionals are realising that career success isn’t just about salary or title - it’s also about working in environments that resonate with their core values.
Aligning your career with your values can lead to greater job satisfaction, improved mental health, and a stronger sense of purpose. But how do you find companies that match your ethos? This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can build a meaningful career that complements your personal principles.
Understanding Your Core Values
What Are Core Values?
Before you can align your career with your values, it’s important to define what your values are. Core values are the guiding principles that influence your decisions, behaviour, and actions. These can include integrity, creativity, diversity, work-life balance, sustainability, and community involvement, among others.
How to Identify Your Personal Values
To identify your core values:
• Reflect on past experiences where you felt fulfilled or conflicted.
• List moments when you were most proud or disappointed in your work.
• Consider what non-negotiables you have in life - these could be ethical stances, personal beliefs, or social causes you support.
By understanding these values, you’ll be better equipped to find companies that share your ethos.
How to Research Company Values
Check the Company’s Mission and Vision
One of the easiest ways to gauge a company’s values is to review their mission and vision statements. These are usually found on the company’s website, and they provide insight into what the organisation stands for. Look for alignment between the company’s goals and your personal values. For example, if sustainability is a key concern for you, seek companies that highlight their commitment to environmental responsibility.
Analyse Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives can be a goldmine for understanding a company’s true commitment to values. Companies that take CSR seriously will have detailed reports or pages dedicated to how they give back to the community, practice ethical sourcing, or support charitable causes. Compare their efforts to your own values - do they invest in causes you care about?
Employee Testimonials and Company Reviews
Employee reviews on sites like Glassdoor or Indeed can provide behind-the-scenes insights into a company’s culture. Look for feedback that speaks to workplace atmosphere, inclusivity, ethical practices, and employee well-being. These reviews often reveal whether the company’s stated values are upheld in practice.
Research Their Leadership and Decision-Making
Leadership often sets the tone for company values. Research key leaders in the company to understand their personal and professional ethics. Are they involved in causes that resonate with you? Do they promote policies that align with your priorities?
Questions to Ask During Job Interviews
Ask About Company Culture
During the interview process, take the opportunity to ask about the company’s culture and values. Some useful questions include:
• How does the company support diversity and inclusion?
• How does leadership communicate the company’s mission and values to employees?
• Can you provide examples of how the company prioritises work-life balance or professional development?
Look for Evidence of Value-Driven Practices
Pay attention to the way interviewers talk about the company’s operations. Are they transparent and enthusiastic about their mission? Ask about specific policies or practices that reflect the company’s values, such as flexible working hours, community service initiatives, or ethical business practices.
How to Ensure Your Values Remain Aligned Over Time
Regularly Reassess Your Values
Your values may evolve as your career progresses or your personal life changes. Make a habit of reflecting on what’s important to you and whether your current job still aligns with those values. If you find that your priorities have shifted, it may be time to look for new opportunities that better align with your updated values.
Stay Engaged in Value-Driven Activities
If your current company offers volunteer programs or CSR projects, participate in them. This will not only keep you engaged with your values but also reinforce your alignment with the company’s mission.
Finding Fulfilment Through Value-Driven Careers
Aligning your career with your values isn’t just a lofty ideal - it’s an achievable goal that can enhance both your professional and personal life. By identifying your core values, thoroughly researching companies, and asking the right questions, you can ensure your next career move is one that brings fulfilment and purpose. Remember, a job that aligns with your values is one that will feel more like a calling than a chore.
