• What is this tool, and how to use it

Step 1: Identify Key Behaviors

Unacceptable Behaviors

What behaviors or attitudes would make someone completely incompatible with our culture?

• Instructions

Flipping the Negatives

For each unacceptable behavior, what’s the opposite action in practice?

• Instructions

Step 2: Group the Behaviors

Organize the behaviors into categories that make sense.

• Instructions

• Communication & Expression

• Ownership & Accountability

• Collaboration & Relationships

• Work Ethic & Drive

• Adaptability & Problem-Solving

• Integrity & Values

Step 3: Pick Your Top Five

Choose the five behaviors that are absolutely non-negotiable.

Example

Instructions

From the list above, select the five behaviors that are essential to your culture and team success. These are the ones you’ll use to hire, fire, and promote.

Step 4: Draft Your Core Rules

Turn each behavior into a clear rule people can follow.

• Rule 1: [name]
• Rule 2: [name]
• Rule 3: [name]
• Rule 4: [name]
• Rule 5: [name]

Instructions

Take each of your top five behaviors and rewrite it as a rule someone could follow. Be specific. This should feel obvious to a new hire.

Example: “Own the outcome” or “Speak directly, not around.”