Principles

Trust - We have confidence in each other. We do this by:

• Developing a shared understanding of the context in which we work and our priorities;
• Maintaining open communications;
• Acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses;
• Encouraging and supporting decision-making at all levels;
• Encouraging and supporting initiative and informed risk taking.

Appreciation - We recognize and value each other's contribution. We do this by:

• Celebrating and sharing our achievement and successes;
• Taking the time to express thanks;
• Valuing individual and team expertise.

Respect - We treat each other with honesty, dignity, courtesy and fairness. We do this by:

• Being open and transparent in our actions;
• Showing consideration in all aspects of our working environment
• Promoting and fostering diversity and bilingualism;
• Supporting each other in achieving a healthy balance between our work and home lives
• Establishing achievable deadlines;
• Challenging ideas, not the individual.

Innovation - We pursue ingenious and effective solutions and approaches. We do this by:

• Continuously improving the way we work;
• Challenging and simplifying processes and polities;
• Seeking out and being open to new ideas;
• Leading the way to innovative solutions; and,
• Fostering a continuous learning environment.

Collaboration - We consult, work together, and share ideas. We do this by:

• Learning about and understanding the work of others;
• Sharing knowledge, expertise and information;
• Coordinating our actions;
• Promoting and pursuing shared approaches and solutions;
• Relying on each other for guidance and support;
• Encouraging teamwork.

Professionalism - We bring knowledge, commitment and passion to our work, and are ethical in our actions. We do this by:

• Defining and clearly communicating priorities and expectations;
• Ensuring that individually and collectively we have the skills we need;
• Maintaining a focus on results;
• Being accountable for our actions;
• Seeking and providing on-going feedback on performance;
• Recognizing excellence and outstanding achievement.

The CIOB Principles were developed through three rounds of consultations with staff.