There is tremendous overlap between companies in nearly every industry. Despite offering nearly identical products and services, however, some succeed while others fail.

So, what differentiates a highly successful brand from their competitors in the same market? What we have seen time and time again is that successful companies have a very clear vision of their values, their purpose, and their strategy.

In short, they have a very complete picture of what they are about, how they plan to move forward, and how their internal culture aligns to support the values and direction of their company.

Aligning Values and Culture to Leap Forward

Ever wonder why customer satisfaction numbers for Southwest and Alaska Airlines soar above their competitors? Or why Chick Fil-A and Coca-Cola always beat out the rest of the market?

Each of the aforementioned businesses has demonstrated a long-term commitment to a business model that aligns with a set of values. They also adhere to a philosophy that embraces needed changes within the context of those values.

When companies have alignment between the chosen business mode, their company values, and a supportive internal culture, success is far more common.

Building on Success Without Losing Focus

There is no end to the variety of ideas that can be made to look intriguing to a Board of Directors or a CEO. But, as we’ve already discussed, a well-balanced alignment of values and culture is crucial to success.

There will always be new and “shiny things” that require examination to determine if they will add value to — or stray from — the company’s core purpose.

As opportunities for growth develop, leaders must maintain alignment by having a determined set of filters that guide them toward well-balanced decisions.

Successful alignment results in healthy growth, increased market share and profitability. When new directions occur in a misaligned fashion, the result is a defection of customers to other brands.

Uncovering the Core Beliefs That Define your Business Model

Knowing clearly what your company is about, in what direction you wish it to go, and the sector of the business world you wish to occupy is the duty of the CEO and company leadership.

Making certain that members of the team also share this commitment requires constant communication and reinforcement of the organizational purpose, internally. “Walking the talk” and living the espoused values of the company on a daily basis are requisite steps that must be embraced.

When faced with the inevitable quandary of choosing whether to adjust the direction of your company, it’s essential to use a predetermined set of evaluative filters that align with your company values.

There are many ways that one can move forward. True understanding of the foundational commitments of your company — and how those will provide a structure for future decisions — must be in place before a new path is considered.