Using assessments to reinforce vision, mission, and values

Q. We use 360 degree feedback and employee surveys as a big part of our employee development processes. How can we use these types of assessments to reinforce our organization's vision, mission, and values?

A. Most organizations have found that assessments such as surveys and 360 degree feedback are valuable from an evaluation perspective, as well as for development. Additionally, we also see a number of organizations beginning to use these instruments to reinforce their vision, mission, and values.

Let's explain:

Most organizations communicate their stated direction and beliefs in some manner. However, many do not go beyond memos, presentations, and posters. We have seen a growing number of our clients incorporating these factors into their assessments, both as a way of communicating what is truly important and as a way of measuring performance against this.

Including questions on vision, mission, and values in an employee survey and 360 degree assessment clearly communicates to employees that these are critical elements to the success of your organization, as well as to them as individuals. It sends the message that "We are serious about these elements; in fact, so serious that we will be measuring our (and YOUR) performance against them!"

This process also introduces an element of accountability where accountability often did not previously exist. Note, however, that standardized, off-the-shelf surveys will not allow you to address points that are critical to your particular organization. Because of this, we recommend a customized survey to capture your unique values.

Some helpful hints:

  • Include specific questions on vision, mission, and values in your organization's employee survey or 360 degree feedback assessment.
  • Communicate up-front that part of the purpose of your organization or 360 degree assessment is to understand performance against these factors.
  • Hold individuals and teams, as well as your organization, accountable for regular and consistent improvement in these areas.
If vision, mission, and values are truly important to your success (which they undoubtedly are!) why would you not choose to communicate and measure against them? Organization surveys and 360 degree feedback provide an ideal opportunity to do just that.