A couple of months ago, a singer for a band that inspired me in my formative teenage years passed away from cancer. Mike Peters of the Alarm spent his entire life simultaneously writing songs that became anthems for people to overcome challenges and live a big life. At the same time, he also battled returning cancer for 30 years. During that time, he started a foundation to help others fighting the disease. He spent every day looking forward to the next and wanting to do great things.
It got me thinking a lot about legacy. What do we want to do with our time on this earth? What do we want people to remember us by, and how do we want to leave an impact on the world?
As a business owner, you probably started your business to help people – to give them something that was missing in the market, that could also help you make a living for a better life on your own terms. So, what would your legacy look like? How does it reflect your values, and do your clients and customers know about your passion?
Here are some ideas for creating a lasting legacy and sharing it with the world.
What is a Legacy?
A legacy is how you made a difference in the world. It’s what people will think of you once you leave this earth. It can be good or bad, but hopefully, you want it to be good by positively impacting others through solving a problem or teaching others how to do something that will help them.
In business, this can be achieved through a product or service that genuinely helps people, living your values, building an inspiring company culture, and being a supportive leader.
Your Values
When starting a business, one of the first steps is to think about your values. This is your purpose and the approach you will take to conduct your business. Then, you apply that to all behaviors and processes, from company culture to how your product is made and delivered. You must also reassess and adapt to new ways as needed.
Sharing Your Values
These days, the Internet is helping people research companies before they make a purchase. They want to know their values, how they treat their workers, how their products are made and if they’re giving back in any way to help make the world a better place.
First, your business should adhere to its established values, and second, it should be transparent. That means communicating to your clients and customers what your company believes in.
Start with your employees. Internal communications are essential in helping employees understand your company’s mission and knowing they are expected to adhere to it. Clearly stating your values to current hires and prospective hires will help everyone stay on the same page, and likely attract workers drawn to the mission who will bring that passion to the job.
Brand messaging. Customer-centric content will demonstrate how your business is working to solve a problem for your customers/clients and how your brand aligns with their values. Storytelling is a great way to illustrate how your brand does this and connect with your audience on an emotional level.
Leadership. Lead by example. As a business owner, people look to you to embody your values. After all, you’re the one who set them up and said they were important to you. Create an internal culture that is purpose-driven and look for ways to participate and share your values in the community.
When All is Said and Done
Having a values-driven business is one way to leave a lasting legacy in the world. Life is short. How do you want to be remembered?
If you need help establishing or sharing your values through internal communications or brand messaging content, please let me know. I’m happy to help you leave your mark!