Culture is predicated on action, not ping-pong tables
It has often been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. It's also been said that actions speak louder than words. The truth is, we live in a society where politicians say ‘trust me’, often only to go back on their word.
Managers ask for more out of their people, only to take more time for themselves and parents, request truth and honesty from their children only to be caught going back on their own word.
Ever wonder why society is so skeptical? Why it’s difficult for people to believe? Why people have a hard time taking instruction?
The good news is it doesn’t have to be this way; in fact, you have a choice to surround yourself with people who walk the walk or to surround yourself with those who simply talk the talk!
The fact is, talk is cheap and for people to believe and trust you, one must show it through action! This could not be truer than in the business setting today.
A company may have a really great headquarters with loads of free food, Ping-Pong tables, a beer fridge, and even a giant slide, which are all very great perks. They may even have a set of company values, an awesome mission and vision statement, which are all key ingredients for the making of a great culture. However, what truly sets great companies apart is their ability to actually live and breathe their core values, in other words, lead according to these values no matter what – no matter when!
When you act or take action in line with the values of your company, you’re able to re-build people’s trust and faith. Trust and faith cannot be won overnight; people will follow if they see the actions are consistent and authentic over a long period of time.
Ask yourself, how long does it take you to build trust in a leader, co-worker, parent, politician or even a spouse? One thing is certain, trust is not built overnight, and even when trust is built, it can quickly crumble with one incorrect move.
While trust can take time to build, the more action taken in alignment with your word, or to a set of particular values can really propel you as a person or leader, as well as the organization or team. The challenging part is that a leaders actions (right or wrong) within your organization or team will ultimately predicate your culture. This is the ultimate test in a companies existence, for what they do next can change the entire game. Action is what truly tests your core values as well as your own personal integrity as a person!
As the great Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Great thoughts speak only to the thoughtful mind, but great actions speak to all mankind.” Go on, be a leader, instead of explaining yourself, lead the way through action!
Less talking more doing!