In the corporate world, core values are often touted as the backbone of a company's culture. They're the guiding principles that supposedly steer every decision made within an organization. But what if those core values were - dare we say it - funny? What if a company's guiding principles brought a smile to your face rather than a serious nod? Let's explore the unexpected world of funny core values.
Before we dive in, remember, humor is subjective. What makes one person laugh might leave another unamused. But that's part of what makes funny core values so great - they show a company's humanity and willingness to not take themselves too seriously. So, let's embark on this light-hearted journey and examine some of the funniest core values out there.
Promoting Laughter
Some companies actively foster a culture of humor. For them, laughter isn't just the best medicine, it's a strategic weapon for boosting employee morale and productivity. Take Fractl, a digital marketing agency, for instance. Their onboarding process includes a 'Laughter Audit', ensuring new hires can handle their staff's unique brand of humor.
But promoting laughter isn't just about being funny. It's also about creating a workspace where people feel comfortable being themselves. For example, the core value of 'Be Real, Be You' at Leafly, a cannabis-focused media company, encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work. Because, let's face it, when you can be yourself, it's a lot easier to find the funny side of things.
Encouraging Levity
Other companies isn't so much about funny core values as it is about encouraging levity in the workplace. Take Zappos, for example, with their 'Deliver WOW Through Service' core value. They don't joke about their customers or their services. Instead, they focus on creating extraordinary experiences, often involving humor and personalized service.
At Warby Parker, their 'Be Good to Each Other' core value fosters a culture of kindness, but also leaves room for laughter. Because as clichéd as it sounds, laughter truly is the shortest distance between two people. When you're good to each other, laughter comes naturally.
Self-Deprecation as a Strength
Some companies embrace self-deprecating humor as a core value. For instance, 'No Assholes' rule at HubSpot might be vindictive, but the sentiment is genuine. They understand that unless they maintain a jerk-free zone, their company culture could go from laughter to lawsuits in no time.
'Assume Positive Intent' at Diapers.com (now owned by Walmart) is another example. By assuming the best in people, they've fostered a trusting work environment where humor can flourish. After all, it's easier to laugh when you trust and respect your colleagues.
Laughing at Ourselves
Many companies with funny core values understand the importance of laughter. But it's not just about external appearances, it's about the internal culture. 'Maintain Perspective' at Eric Koeing Associates, an architecture firm, emphasizes balance and perspective. Not every problem requires a dramatic response, and sometimes, a good chuckle is all you need.
The 'No Stupid Rules' core value at Netflix is anti-bureaucracy in its essence, but it also conveys a sense of humor. It shows employees they're trusted to make decisions and mistakes, and (hopefully) learn from them - because without the 'stupid' rules, how else can we learn what works and what doesn't?
Humor as a Lubricant
Humor, in many organizations, is like lubricant. It can smooth over tricky situations, improve communication, and make even the most mundane task feel less... task-y. 'Reject Panic' at GitHub, for example. Instead of freaking out when problems arise (and they will), GitHib emphasizes a calm, collected demeanor. And sometimes, a well-timed joke can keep panic at bay.
'Creating a Little Weirdness' at Airbnb might seem odd, but it's all about fostering creativity and innovation. It encourages employees to think beyond the boundaries of what's 'normal', to inject a little quirkiness into their work. And where there's quirkiness, laughter usually follows.
In a world where businesses often take themselves too seriously, funny core values serve as a breath of fresh air. They demonstrate that a company doesn't need to be stuffy to be successful. After all, laughter not only helps us navigate through life, but it also makes the journey a lot more enjoyable. So, as you strive to create your own unique company culture, why not add a touch of humor to the mix? Who knows? You might laugh your way to success.