Learn From Current Franchisees and Other Business Professionals
The Importance of Values in Building Your Business
The Importance of Values in Building Your
Business
By: Jessica Nemecz, Business Coach
Owning a small business is both a thrilling and challenging endeavor. You’re building something
from the ground up, chasing your dreams, and working hard to make a difference in your
community. But with the excitement of entrepreneurship also comes the inevitability of tough
times. When challenges arise—and they will—nothing can guide you more effectively than your
core values.
Your company values aren't just a guiding light for you as the owner. They also serve as a
compass for your team and a reflection of what your customers and community can expect from
your business. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your business practices,
understanding and living your values can make all the difference.
When I first started my first company, I didn't think much of values in business. A wise business
coach taught me about the importance of values. She reminded me that your values tell your
employees who you are, support your clients and customers, and keep you grounded in hard
times.
Here’s how to define, teach, and showcase your values effectively.
Step 1: Create Your Values
Before you can rely on your values, you need to take the time to define them. This process is
about understanding what matters most to you and how that should translate into your business.
1. Reflect on what’s important to you
Ask yourself, “What values do I want my business to stand for?” Consider qualities like honesty,
innovation, sustainability, or kindness. Think about how these personal principles can be
incorporated into your day-to-day operations, hiring processes, and interactions with customers.
2. Consider the values you want your team to model
Your employees are the face of your business, and their actions should mirror the values you
hold. For example, if excellent customer service is a core value, it’s essential that your team
treats every customer interaction with care and attention.
3. Keep it simple
It’s tempting to come up with a long list, but simplicity is key. Focus on a manageable set of
values—anywhere from one to 12 (one for each month, perhaps). This makes it easier for you
and your team to fully adopt and live by them.
Step 2: Teach Your Team Your Values
Your values should resonate throughout your business, especially within your team. From the
moment someone joins your organization, they should understand what your company stands
for and how to embody those principles.
1. Start from onboarding
When you hire new employees, introduce them to your company’s values from the beginning.
This sets the foundation for a strong culture where every team member understands their role in
upholding your principles.
2. Keep values top of mind
Your values shouldn’t just live in an employee handbook. Talk about them frequently in staff
meetings, trainings, and day-to-day interactions. Share specific examples of how your team has
demonstrated these values in action—this makes them feel more tangible and real.
3. Use values to guide behavior during challenges
When issues arise (and they will), use your values as a decision-making framework. For
example, if transparency is one of your values and an unexpected problem occurs, be open with
your team and customers about the situation and how you plan to resolve it.
Step 3: Show Your Values to Your Customers and
Community
While your team is essential to living your values, it’s equally important to demonstrate them
externally. Customers and your broader community should be able to see your principles in
everything your business does.
1. Treat your customers with care
Your values should shine through in the way your customers are treated. If fairness and respect
are core principles, ensure that every interaction—whether in customer service, pricing, or
product delivery—reflects these values.
2. Operate with integrity
The everyday operations of your business should align with your values. For instance, if
sustainability is important to you, adopt eco-friendly packaging and minimize waste. When your
customers see your actions reflecting your values, they’re more likely to build trust and loyalty
with your brand.
3. Share your values publicly
Don’t keep your values a secret. Use your website, social media platforms, and marketing
materials to share what you stand for. This transparency helps your customers and community
connect with your business on a deeper level.
Why Values Matter in Business
Defining and living by your values is more than just a feel-good exercise—it’s a powerful strategy for success. Strong values help build a cohesive team, earn the trust of your customers, and create a meaningful legacy for your business.
When the inevitable challenges come, your values will act as your north star, guiding your
decisions and actions. They remind your team what you stand for, show your customers what they can expect, and attract like-minded people to your mission.
If you haven’t defined your values yet, take the first step today. Reflect on what matters most, align your business with these principles, and watch as they transform your company into something truly special.
If you're unsure where to start or need a little support, reach out today. At Remedy Management Group, we've been where you are and we're here to help.
Business Goals
By: Jessica Nemecz, Business Coach
The start of a new year is brimming with potential. I love this time of the year! The possibilities
are endless. Whether you’re an entrepreneur starting out or a small business owner looking to
grow, a focused plan can make all the difference. Let's dream and plan together! Here are your
steps to success.
1. Know Where You Want Your Business to Go
Before setting any goals, take a moment to reflect on the bigger picture. What’s your vision for
your business? Are you aiming to launch a new product, increase revenue, expand your team,
or strengthen your market presence? Understanding your desired destination ensures that your
goals align with your long-term ambitions rather than leading you down a path you don’t want to
follow.
I like to spend some time with a journal and pen in a quiet place. Ask yourself some of the
questions from above before you start writing your goals for the year. It can make all the
difference in the joy you experience as you reach the goals that mean the most to you.
2. Prioritize How You Spend Your Time
Time is one of your most valuable resources as a business owner. Ask yourself, “What do I want
to spend my energy and focus on?” Setting goals that complement your priorities helps ensure
that your time is spent on activities that drive growth and fulfillment in your business.
We are normally drained by doing tasks that bore us or energized by doing tasks that we love or
excite us. Figure out what excites you before you set your goals. If possible, delegate the tasks
that drain your energy and set goals for yourself in areas that excite you. You're more likely to
accomplish these goals as you're naturally rewarded for doing them.
3. Start with the End in Mind
Imagine it’s December 31st. What do you envision having accomplished by the end of the year?
Visualizing your ideal outcomes can help clarify and set measurable goals. Whether it’s hiring
two new employees, hitting a revenue milestone, or building stronger customer relationships,
having a clear picture of success gives you something powerful to work toward.
Take some time to visualize your year. When you celebrate on December 31st, you'll have a lot
to celebrate!
4. Break Goals into Quarterly Milestones
A big year-long goal can feel overwhelming. Make it more manageable by dividing it into four
quarters. For example, if your goal is to grow revenue by $100,000 this year, aim for a $25,000
increase each quarter. This approach not only keeps your progress measurable but also allows
you to adjust your strategy if you fall behind or if conditions change.
As the old saying goes, "how do you eat an elephant?" The answer is, "one bite at a time".
When we are envisioning a big goal, it can feel overwhelming. Small steps move you forward.
5. Divide Your Quarters into Weekly Goals
Take your quarterly goals and break them down further into weekly action items. Small,
actionable steps are easier to manage and execute. Instead of saying, “I need more sales this
quarter,” focus on tasks like “reach out to 15 potential clients this week” or “finish updating the
website landing page by Friday.”
6. Review Goals Weekly and Stay Organized
Your goals should be a living, breathing part of your business strategy. Review and reassess
them weekly. Set aside time for a “goal check-in meeting” with yourself to celebrate wins,
address challenges, and adjust where needed. Importantly, integrate your weekly goals into
your daily calendar. Use time-blocking to ensure you’re dedicating focused time to achieve what
matters most.
This is where action happens! Most of us look at our calendars every day or at least a few
times a week. Write it down and check it off. You'll get a big dopamine hit and it will feel
amazing!
7. Stay Flexible and Adapt
Life and business are unpredictable. Your priorities may change, unforeseen opportunities may
arise, or barriers could slow your progress. Stay flexible and revisit your goals as needed. If you
find yourself distracted or overwhelmed, take a step back, refocus on what really matters, and, if
necessary, pivot your strategy. Adjusting your goals doesn’t mean failure—it means you’re
staying agile and aligned with what your business truly needs.
Often when I'm looking at my goals at the end of the year, I'll have accomplished half of them.
In reviewing those that I didn't complete, they are often ones that I decided either weren't worth
my time, money, or effort. It's ok to adjust as you go!
Final Thoughts
Setting business goals is not a one-time activity—it’s a dynamic process that evolves with you
and your business. By breaking your goals into manageable steps, staying disciplined yet
flexible, and reviewing your progress weekly, you’ll set yourself up for success this year.
Need help getting started? Consider scheduling time to make a concrete plan, find an
accountability partner to keep you focused, or reach out to Remedy Management Group to meet
with a Business Coach.
Here’s to building your best year yet!