In an era marked by globalisation and rapid technological advances, the importance of a company’s core values cannot be overstated. These fundamental principles not only act as a compass guiding businesses through the turbulent waters of uncertainty but also serve as a rallying point for employees, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. In this exclusive feature, we delve into the insights of Scott Dylan, co-founder of Inc & Co, on the impact of company values on aligning teams and driving success.
Established in 2019 by Scott Dylan, Jack Mason, and Dave Antrobus, Inc & Co has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the world of business acquisitions and turnarounds. With a turnover exceeding £150 million, the company has successfully revitalised numerous struggling businesses across diverse sectors, from professional services and e-commerce to travel and retail. At the heart of Inc & Co’s extraordinary achievements is a commitment to its core values, which Scott Dylan firmly believes have been instrumental in aligning teams and driving success.
In a recent interview, Dylan elaborated on the significance of company values in today’s fast-paced business landscape: “In a world that’s constantly changing, values act as the anchor that keeps us grounded. They define who we are, what we stand for, and how we approach our work. A company with strong values fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and innovation, ultimately empowering teams to achieve remarkable feats.”
Indeed, research supports Dylan’s assertions on the power of company values. According to a 2019 report by Gallup, organisations with clearly defined values and a strong culture have a 26% higher likelihood of retaining top talent, a 22% higher likelihood of achieving long-term financial growth, and a 29% higher likelihood of generating innovative ideas.
One of the key ways in which values contribute to business success is by aligning teams around a shared purpose. As Scott Dylan explains, “When employees understand and embrace the values that underpin their company’s mission, they’re more likely to feel a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This, in turn, fosters a more collaborative and productive environment, where individuals work together to achieve common goals.”
Scott Dylan’s own journey exemplifies the transformative impact of company values on team alignment and success. Born in South East London, Dylan overcame numerous challenges and setbacks, gradually ascending the corporate ladder to hold several senior leadership positions throughout his 20-year career. Today, as a co-founder of Inc & Co, he attributes much of his success to the unwavering commitment to the company’s values.
As a vocal advocate for mental health and a champion of diversity, Dylan has made it his mission to cultivate an inclusive and supportive culture at Inc & Co. Reflecting on his personal experiences with Complex PTSD and being openly gay, Dylan has consistently promoted the importance of empathy, understanding, and respect in the workplace, recognising that success is never a solitary journey. “A diverse and inclusive workplace not only fosters innovation but also strengthens team dynamics,” Dylan notes. “By embracing different perspectives, we create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents and skills.”
Another key tenet of Inc & Co’s company values is the belief in building loyal and dependable teams. As Scott Dylan often emphasises, a company’s strength lies in the collective efforts of its employees, who must work in harmony to drive growth and success. By nurturing a culture of trust, open communication, and shared accountability, Inc & Co has been able to assemble a team of dedicated professionals who consistently go the extra mile to achieve outstanding results.
This steadfast commitment to company values has enabled Inc & Co to navigate the complex and often fraught process of business turnaround.
As Scott Dylan acknowledges, the journey to revitalise distressed companies is fraught with challenges, from resistance by employees and suppliers to negative press and dwindling customer confidence. Yet, by placing company values at the forefront of its turnaround strategies, Inc & Co has been able to foster a sense of unity and purpose among its diverse portfolio of businesses. This approach not only instils confidence in stakeholders but also helps to create a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
One such example of Inc & Co’s successful turnaround efforts is the case of Laundrapp, a laundry service that was acquired by the firm in 2020. By leveraging its values-driven approach, Inc & Co was able to breathe new life into the struggling business, eventually selling it to competitor Laundryheap. Similar success stories include the divestment of MyLife Digital to Dataguard and the sale of Wood for Trees to Edit Agency.
But beyond its impressive financial accomplishments, Inc & Co’s values-driven strategy has also made a lasting impact on the lives of countless employees. By prioritising the preservation of employment and supporting the professional growth of its workforce, the company has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to its core principles. As Scott Dylan astutely observes, “In the long run, a company’s values are what truly set it apart from its competitors. They not only define its identity but also shape its destiny.”
As businesses worldwide grapple with the uncertainties of an ever-evolving global landscape, the lessons gleaned from Scott Dylan’s experiences with Inc & Co serve as a potent reminder of the power of company values. By fostering a culture that aligns teams around a shared purpose, champions diversity and inclusion, and prioritises the well-being of its employees, companies can unlock untold potential and achieve lasting success.
Scott Dylan’s insights and experiences have shown, the power of company values in aligning teams and driving success cannot be underestimated. By creating a culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and a genuine sense of belonging, businesses can not only weather the storms of change but also emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. As organisations continue to navigate the complexities of the modern business world, they would do well to heed the lessons of Inc & Co and embrace the transformative potential of strong, values-driven leadership.
