The check in for this second Values Conversation was overwhelmingly positive. Participants were energised and interested to be involved in a conversation about values with colleagues. People welcomed the opportunity to be part of the process and so able to start to see how everything will come together as the conversations grow and more people are involved. A theme emerged that this was not a tick box exercise and that it would make a difference. This was welcomed by people.
When asked about the outcomes from the Values Audit people stated that it was an affirmation of their values and that this was good as those values represented what really matters to them. A number of participants spoke about how they regularly checked in on their values, making them something that was an active part of who they are and how they show up in and outside of work.
Values were not perceived as something passive; they were very much a reflection of how people approach their lives. There was an acknowledgement of the situational impact on people’s values and that values can change over time. And whilst values are often seen as something very personal, the strong link with people’s work was evident.
Participants expressed the view that their values will help to shape an organisation where there is a high level of trust, empowerment and belonging. These were deemed important. The creation of a psychologically safe environment was mentioned more than once as was the need to remain true to people’s authentic self, whilst respecting difference in the values of others.
Participants expressed feelings of energy, enthusiasm and encouragement during the check out at the close of the morning. A strong theme emerged around the value of listening to the values of others and learning more about their colleagues. People welcomed this and that they are being given a platform from which to talk about their own values.