A company’s core values must visibly exist through every level of the organization, although analyzing such an alignment is an unlikely time investment. However, a quick method to uncover fit is to ask, “Which of the company’s core values is most important?” If values are sequential, like Amazon’s “It’s always Day 1,” it’s quickly answered, and you can delve deeper (“What does ‘It’s always Day 1’ mean to you?”). This question also yields an informed ranking for unordered core values, which can also be used to initiate further discussion with the hiring manager and cadre. Core values are true beliefs, not aspirational ideals, and the organization with leadership, management, and employees genuinely living its values is an essential health indicator.
