ETH Disscussion Board

We hear so much about "values" these days. Values play a crucial part in our decision making within a business environment. Some folks value privacy—others don't. Some value truth telling—others don't. We might say that everyone has his or her own individual value system.

• Where did your values come from? What or who influenced you to hold the values you do? What were your values in high school vs. now? Be specific and give examples.

We also recognize that organizations have values. These are sometimes articulated in “values statements” but are usually observable in organizational cultures. The Business Dictionary defines values as “important and lasting beliefs or ideals shared by the members of a culture about what is good or bad and desirable or undesirable. Values have major influence on a person's behavior and attitude and serve as broad guidelines in all situations. Some common business values are fairness, innovation and community involvement." (http://www(dot)businessdictionary(dot)com/definition/values.html#ixzz2jKr9zYRC)

• How would you describe your organization’s values?

Consider any personal experience you may have. You might also find your organization’s values statement on its website; summarize and comment on it, citing that website.