We've all heard the chatter about the importance of vision, mission, and values in the workplace. It's a topic that is frequently discussed in boardrooms and team meetings, often accompanied by eye rolls and dismissive sighs. Yet, how often do we see these lofty ideals translated into actual practice? How many leaders can confidently name their organization's guiding values or succinctly describe its vision and mission? For many, the answers may be unsettlingly vague or non-existent.

The Danger of a Broken Compass

This disconnect is not just a trivial oversight; it's a serious concern that can put organizations in jeopardy. A company compass, which consists of vision, mission, values, and strategy, serves as a vital tool for navigating the complexities of today's work environment. When this compass is broken or underutilized, organizations risk becoming rudderless, leaving employees feeling disengaged and unanchored amid the storm of uncertainty and change.

Let's take a moment to consider the implications of neglecting the company compass. When organizations fail to operationalize their vision, mission, and values, they create a culture steeped in confusion and disconnection. Employees may feel lost, lacking a clear direction or purpose in their work. They may ask themselves questions like, “What's the point of what I'm doing?” or “Why should I bother?” These are not just passing thoughts; they are signs of a deeper search for connection, clarity and meaning.

The Great Migration to Meaning

In a time when burnout rates are skyrocketing and employee disengagement is alarmingly common, the stakes have never been higher. People are leaving their jobs in droves, not just for better pay or benefits, but in search of a workplace that resonates with what matters most – their needs, values, aspirations and strengths. I refer to this phenomenon as “The Great Migration to Meaning,” and it highlights the growing demand for organizations to provide more than just a paycheck. Through my work with hundreds of companies over the years, I have witnessed firsthand how this migration is not just a trend; it's a profound shift in what humans, also known as employees, seek from their workplaces.

The (Untaught) Power of the Company Compass

A company compass is not merely a tool; it must be designed to guide organizations toward meaningful work experiences, but it requires intentionality and commitment to be effective.

Unfortunately, many of us were never taught the true power and potency of the four points of this compass. Vision and values exercises have, over the years, devolved into mere team-building activities—check marks on a to-do list rather than meaningful and transformative processes. Strategic planning days have turned into obligatory events, rather than opportunities for genuine inspiration and alignment. In some cases, they've become little more than exercises to produce a pretty plaque or an attractive poster for the wall, devoid of real significance.

When we fail to recognize the true potential of these elements, we miss out on the opportunity to create an organizational culture that matters, that is meaningful – a culture that thrives. To develop, strengthen and leverage a company compass that works well, it's important to know the 4 points and the purpose they each serve.

Knowing and Understanding the Four Points

A well-defined company compass relies on knowing the four different points: vision, mission, values, and strategy. Understanding these components goes beyond simply knowing what they are; it requires appreciating the distinct and vital role each plays in guiding leaders, employees and the organization, overall.

Let's take a closer look at each component of the company compass:

1. Vision: A compelling vision is not just a slogan; it must be the beacon that inspires everyone in the organization. It answers the question of why we are here and offers a glimpse into the future possibilities we can create together. A strong vision fosters a sense of belonging and connection, aligning employees with something greater than themselves.

2. Mission: The mission outlines how we intend to achieve our vision. It must articulate our objectives, the unique value we bring, and what sets us apart from others. A clear mission is essential for operational effectiveness and helps rally individuals around common goals, roles and responsibilities.

3. Values: Values are the foundation of an effective company culture. They must dictate behaviors, guide interactions, and invoke a sense of purpose that resonates with employees. When individuals can recognize and identify with these values, it significantly increases their engagement and performance.

4. Strategy: Finally, strategy serves as the unifying force for all compass points, orchestrating decision-making processes. It aligns business objectives with employee outcomes, providing clear instruction for all. This alignment ensures synchronized movement towards common goals, empowering every team member to contribute meaningfully to the organization's overarching mission.

Operationalizing the Compass

When these elements are designed to be operationalized and woven into the fabric of the organization, they create a powerful framework that fosters connection, direction, and ultimately, protection for employees and the organization. Conversely, when they are ignored or poorly articulated, organizations risk alienating their employees and losing their competitive edge – inevitably hurting both people and profit.

Take a moment and reflect on your organization's compass. Is it intact, or is it broken? Are you actively engaging your employees to strengthen it or develop it further? Are you communicating its points clearly and consistently? The time is now to take a hard look at how effectively you are utilizing this vital tool.

The Time for Change is Now

In a world yearning for connection, purpose and meaning more than ever, the compass is more than a nice-to-have – it's essential. Neglecting the company compass is not just a missed opportunity; it's a dangerous gamble. The company compass is needed now more than ever.

You wouldn't go to sea without a compass. So, why would you go into business, health or human services without one?

Stephen de Groot is President and CoFounder at Brivia. He is the author of Responsive Leadership (SAGE, 2016) and Getting to Better: A New Model for Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life (Fall, 2025). To learn more about Stephen, his work and the Brivia approach click HERE.