Create Catchphrases

This is the self-talk of the organization and it’s important. Catchphrases seem corny but they are a summary of big picture issues and priorities boiled down into bite-sized memorable words that hold big meaning. .It requires a kind of genius to do it well. Read The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle for ideas. 

Measure What You Say Matters

You want to create awareness and alignment of behavior and effort in certain areas of your business that lead to success, consistent with your priorities.  Make sure your priorities are measured. If you are measuring only the financial, your team will sniff you out as a manipulator rather than a leader. I’m sure you’ve heard of organizations claiming to be a family until one bad month prompts reactive screaming rather than productive coaching and training.

Use Emblems, Logos, Trophies, Physical Markers, Pictures, Artifacts

Create physical reminders on the walls of your “house” for people to see as a reminder of priorities successfully implemented.

Translate Big Ideas Into Behaviors

Abstract mission statements and priorities should be concretized into behaviors that produce results so no one is confused or uncertain.  What particular task or tasks define the identity of the organization?  These are the soft skills of: Effort moving toward excellence. Forgiveness, asking and giving.  Persistence after failure.  Living out The Golden Rule with co-workers and customers.