Core values are the fundamental beliefs of a person or organization. These guiding principles dictate behavior and can help people understand the difference between right and wrong. Core values also help companies to determine if they are on the right path and fulfilling their goals by creating an unwavering guide. There are many examples of core values in the world, depending upon the context.

Core values aren't always personal in nature. Many companies find it helpful to draft a values statement that highlights values the company seeks to follow and expects from its employees. Corporate values can impact business practices as well as the overall organizational culture.

Examples of Corporate Core Values

When companies refer to core values, these are the guiding principles that help to define how the corporation should behave in business and perhaps beyond, if they have an additional mission to serve the community. Core values usually complement the corporation's mission statement. There are many examples of common core values for a business or other type of organization.

• A commitment to sustainability and to acting in an environmentally friendly way. Companies like Patagonia and Ben & Jerry's have environmental sustainability as a core value.
• A commitment to innovation and excellence. Apple Computer is perhaps best known for having a commitment to innovation as a core value. This is embodied by their "Think Different" motto.
• A commitment to doing good for the whole. Google, for example, believes in making a great search engine and building a great company without being evil.
• A commitment to helping those less fortunate. TOMS shoe company gives away a pair of shoes to a needy person for every pair it sells in an effort to alleviate poverty and make life better for others.
• A commitment to building strong communities. Shell oil company donates millions of dollars to the University of Texas to improve student education and to match employee charitable donations.

As you can see, often the core values that companies have are similar to those that individuals might choose as guiding principles as well.