Let’s be honest—most organisations have workplace values. But how many can say those values actually influence how people behave, work, and treat each other?

Too often, values are beautifully displayed on posters, printed on coffee mugs, and proudly mentioned in onboarding—but they don’t shape culture. Worse, people may see them as lip service, irrelevant, or even hypocritical. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re also missing a huge opportunity.

Organisational and team values have the potential to shape culture, drive behavior, and anchor accountability—but too often, they fall flat. In this article, adapted from a recent podcast episode, we unpack the 10 signs your values might not be working and offer a simple, actionable step to get things back on track.

1. No One Knows What They Are
If you can’t rattle off your team values without checking a coffee cup or the back of the dunny door, they’re not real.
Values should be memorable. If team members, especially managers, can’t name them offhand, they’re just decorative.

2. No One Knows What They Mean
You can’t just say ‘integrity’ and call it a day. People need to know what that looks like in practice.
Use clear, plain language. Define values in terms of what you do—not just what you say.

3. They’re About Impressions, Not Behaviours
We give great customer service – isn’t a value. It’s a vague claim.
Values should point to specific, observable behaviours. Swap fluff for substance.

4. There Are No Consequences
If nothing happens when people ignore the values, they’re optional—and therefore meaningless.
Accountability is key. Living values should matter—positively and negatively.

5. Harmony is Prioritised Over Honesty
If we never have conflict, there’s tension bubbling under the surface.
Don’t avoid tough conversations to keep the peace. Healthy conflict supports values.

6. Some People Are Exempt
If you hear yourself say ‘That’s just [Name]’, you’re about to excuse the inexcusable.
When some team members don’t have to live the values, it undermines the entire system.

7. Managers Don’t Live Them
Do as I say, not as I do? That destroys trust and credibility.
Managers should model the values, even when it’s inconvenient.

8. They’re Dictated From Above
You can’t impose values from a boardroom and expect people to care.
People should have a say in the values they’re expected to live. Consultation is key.

9. They’re Externally Focused
There’s a difference between what we promise customers and how we treat each other.
Don’t blur internal values with external marketing messages.

10. They’re an Acronym
Acronyms often feel forced and gimmicky. 
Values should feel authentic, not like a branding exercise. Acronyms can breed cynicism.

BONUS TIP: You Overcomplicated the Process
If it takes 3 focus groups and a novella of draft rounds, you’ve lost the plot.
Keep it simple. A fast, inclusive process beats a drawn-out, elite one every time.

+ One Quick Win: Bonus: You’re Not Celebrating the Good Stuff Loud Enough
When someone lives the values, that’s a moment worth making a big deal out of. But too often, we skip right past it. No high five, no shout-out in the team meeting, no “hey, that’s exactly what we’re about.” It’s a missed opportunity—not just for recognition, but for reinforcing what the values actually look like in action.

Values become real when we shine a spotlight on the people bringing them to life. Recognition doesn’t need to be over-the-top or expensive. A quick message, a public thank-you, a story shared in your internal newsletter—these small celebrations build clarity, connection, and momentum.

Try this quick win: Start your next team meeting with a “values in action” moment. Ask for one story from the past week where someone embodied a company value. Rotate who shares. Keep it real. You’ll be surprised how quickly that becomes part of the culture.

Whats Next?

If this sparked a few thoughts—or made you squirm just a little—you’re not alone. Values are one of the most talked-about (and misunderstood) parts of organisational culture.
Talk to one of our culture and leadership experts – a free 30 minute consultation to problem solve any issues you are facing. 

Links to Resources on this topic (and mentioned in the Podcast):

➡️The No-BS Values Check – Infographic (download)

➡️ Are your values real – DIY Values assessment

➡️Organisational Values – need help with the process – see what our program looks like.