24/06/2019
What are Brand Values?
As humans, we all have values that guide us through life. We acquire values throughout our life time starting from childhood. Values can also change as we learn, experience new things, and encounter different cultures and people. There is a large body of research concerning personal values, but it can all be summarized as follows ;
1. Values are beliefs, but they
represent emotions, not ideas
Values are always attached to motivational goals, meaning they inspire action
2. Values aren’t specific. They represent a generalized understanding of actions and situations
3. Values are standards and criteria, that people use to navigate the world
4. Values aren’t equal. There is a hierarchy of values and that hierarchy differentiates people from one another
Brand values are no different to human values. They guide what you will do and won’t do as a brand. Brand values are the pillar that the brand is built on even before you have a product or service. Just like personal values, brand values can be acquired and changed, but they need to be practised in order to have real power.
Why Brand Values are Important
Brand Values have different functions. First of all, they define acceptable and unacceptable behaviour. Brand values help brands operate in a highly diverse and social environment, where success depends on how well you’re understood and accepted as a brand.
Secondly, brand values guide decision making in the organization. The beauty of having brand values is that you cease to be a malleable soft mass of indecisiveness, and become a laser-focused entrepreneur that sticks to his or her vision. Brand values have the power to limit and expand your vision at the same time. You’re restricted by your values, but they make decision making the most straightforward and effective experience, which enables you to move faster towards your goals.