Leaning into leading with values - it's not for the faint-hearted.

In a leadership session about a month after the release of an organisation's refreshed values, one leader was concerned that some employees were using the values against them or other team members, saying things like, “You aren't being fair and isn’t that supposed to be one of our values?”

This leader was angry and did not take these accusations well - unlike me. Now, I am not sure I always agree with the statement there is no such thing as bad press, but here was a situation where it applied perfectly.

I was very excited.

First of all, this employee knew this was a value. Brilliant! Maybe they knew other ones, too, as they were still pretty new.

Secondly, they were applying one of the values to their work experience. Amazing!!! Okay - not in a good way, but let's not dwell on that.

And thirdly, this was an opportunity to talk about it. Wowie Zowie!!!! Those don't come up every day.

As a leader, everything you do is under scrutiny. People are watching all your actions, decisions, behaviours, who you are talking to and not talking to, what you have for lunch … it’s a bit creepy, really. Like that Police song, "Every Breath You Take".

They are taking measurements of your character. Trying to discern your values - your personal ones and how well you align your behaviours with the organisational values. They want to know if they can trust you and if you are a leader worth following.

Like a politician, you are on 24/7 - okay, that's more of an expression than an accurate measurement of time in this instance. It's exhausting if you're not on top of your game. And yet, you need to be ready to step up to the values plate in a heartbeat.

Know what the values are and why they matter

Understanding the importance of values is crucial for leaders. Values are like the North Star, guiding decisions and actions. Leaders need to know, live and breathe the values in their role. It's not about checking a box but making those values a part of everyday work life, shaping the culture, and giving everyone a shared purpose.

See beyond your own perspective

Leadership isn't a solo act; it's a group effort. So, it's not enough to know what the values mean to you – you've got to see how they play out in your team's world. It's like understanding the backstage workings in a play; you know your part, but you've got to get the whole show. Seeing the values from different angles will keep everyone on the same page.

Be okay with challenges

While it's not comfortable, the ability to welcome challenges and tough conversations is part of the gig. And it isn't about having all the answers. Knowing how to navigate discussions about values and behaviours is key—asking the right questions and helping people have their own Aha! moments. It's not about winning an argument but building a stronger, more united team better equipped to achieve the purpose of the organisation around shared values.

While the employee accusing their manager of not upholding the values was acting below the line, discussions about values and behaviours can be most effective in those moments—and the moments where people are clearly going above the line. Get ready to lean into these awkward conversations about behaviours in a way that aligns with your workplace values to deepen connection and trust within your team.