HomeMy WebLinkAboutS2 - Organizational ValuesCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
STUDY SESSION
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Homer L. Bludau, City Manager
DATE: September 12, 2000
SUBJECT: STATUS REPORT ON ORGANIZATIONAL VALUES PROCESS
A process to clearly identify those values the employees want the organization defined
by, and held accountable to, was begun in January 2000. The process started with the
executive management team (all employees directly reporting to the City Manager)
working with facilitator Susan Quinn to develop a draft of organizational values we felt
would reflect the type of organization we aspire to be. A two -day retreat in January with
Susan Quinn resulted in a draft of Organizational Values, identified actions by our group
which would support those values and a draft Mission Statement.
That beginning has been followed by much work, including several meetings with all
permanent and permanent part-time employees in order to develop buy -in and input.
The City Manager would like to utilize this Study Session to review the Organizational
Values and process in some detail with Council in order to inform Council of its
importance as a tool in modifying the current organizational culture into a values -
centered service organization, which empowers employees and better serves the public.
City Hall • 3300 Newport Boulevard • Post Office Box 1768 • Newport Beach, California 92659 -1768
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As employees of the City of Newport Beach, we choose to embrace and practice the
following values:
In practicing integrity, we strive to be honest, reliable, respectful, ethical, fair and
authentic. We will serve in a manner consistent with community values and follow
through on our commitments.
In practicing empathy, we will be sensitive to the needs of others by being
compassionate, thoughtful, open - minded, willing to understand, and by being good
listeners.
In practicing service, we understand our roles as representatives of the City. We will
endeavor to practice humility, to make things better for others, and to treat others as we
want to be treated.
In practicing excellence, we will strive to do our best by demonstrating competence and a
commitment to quality. We will be innovative, thorough, efficient and effective in our
work.
In creating a positive work environment, we will express our appreciation for, and
recognize, others. We will follow a work ethic, take pride of ownership in our work, be
courteous, encourage creative thinking, seek and be open to challenges, create esprit de
corps, maintain a safe work environment, and act with enthusiasm.
In creating unity of purpose, we will practice cooperation and teamwork. We will
practice open communication by keeping others informed, considering the needs of
others, and at times deferring to the needs of others.
In practicing responsibility, we will be accountable in our work, take initiative, make
appropriate decisions, and act decisively. We will acknowledge our errors and correct
them.
In practicing loyalty, we will respect the individual and the position. We will support
each other, abide by decisions, and strive to always present a positive image of the City.
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ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIORS
The following behaviors were identified as ways for the organization's employees to
demonstrate and act on their values. The list is not meant to be all- inclusive, but rather
descriptive of the types of behaviors that would demonstrate each value.
Integrity —no surprises, speak up with concerns rather than internalize; say in the group
what you say in private; always be honest; frank; give credit where it's due; be factual in
advising public on processes and regulations; consistency of application of regulations;
all customers deserve same treatment; tell people the whole story.
Empathy expressions of concern; active listening; walking in each others' shoes; slow
to judgement; acknowledge others' feelings; show you care; respect one another's
professional abilities.
Service —be courteous, professional; problem - solving attitude; ask customers if they need
help and then help them; keep public informed about what you're doing; timeliness;
quality service; acceptance of role to carry out Council policy; friendliness; be receptive
to complaints and requests; help them navigate the system; put yourself in their shoes.
Excellence— encourage innovation; support professional growth; seek to become an
expert; encourage self - development; allow people to be innovative without negative
consequences; encourage creativity in problem - solving; be up -to -date on technological
advances.
Create a positive work environment —clearly define expectations; frequent feedback on
work performance; reward work performance; education and development opportunities;
employee lounge.
Unity ofpurpose— reinforce with each other why we're here; act in support of mission
statement; identify opportunities to help each other, cross - training and education;
informational exchange; aligning work processes and products.
Loyalty —going the extra mile; project positive image through appearance and actions;
not talk disparagingly about organization and leadership.
Responsibility —show up regularly and ready to work; master the elements of our jobs;
take ownership of work product; take pride in work; meet deadlines or tell supervisor;
smooth transitions between departments; tell supervisor if you see a problem or have a
problem; be solution- oriented; don't be reluctant to do something extra; offer
constructive criticism.
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MISSION STATEMENT
Newport Beach is an exceptional community because of its nautical heritage, the natural
beauty of the bay and ocean, and its outstanding enhancements.
As employees of the City of Newport Beach, we have been entrusted to be the stewards
of the quality of life cherished by those who live, work and visit here.
In support of that trust, we commit to provide excellent service that respects the
uniqueness and diversity of the community.
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