Assessing a company from the outside can be tricky business – but it shouldn’t be. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on the #saslife. From our values to our vision and (almost) everything in between, we’re giving a transparent look at what it’s really like to work here.
Our values aren’t just words on a screen – they’re our operating model. They influence everything we do, from the software we create, to how we treat our people. During times of crises, like in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, our values guide the way we respond to our people and communities. And when difficult decisions need to be made, we look to our values to guide us. At the end of the day, our values set the tone at SAS. They’re the foundation for everything thing else – we hire to them, we reward to them, and we live them out every day.
Our Values
Our values aren’t new – we’ve always held true to the principles that make us who we are– but a few years ago, we knew it was time to put pen to paper and put “the code” into words. We wanted to define the fundamental qualities that make SAS, SAS.
We started at the source – our people. We asked folks from around the world to share what they value most about how we work and act, and how our culture influences their day-to-day. We also heard from our company leaders, and looked back at what our founder and CEO, Jim Goodnight, has said makes SAS a great place to work and do business with. We also looked to the principles that have been core to who we are since the beginning, and those that will continue to move us forward. And of course, we listened to what our customers say about working with us!
In the end, we identified 4 core values that span across all departments, regions and job titles: Accountable, Authentic, Curious and Passionate. Let’s unpack these!
Accountable
We’re responsible, we do things right, and we exceed what’s expected.
Authentic
We’re genuine, we’re transparent, and we lead with integrity.
Curious
We’re relentless problem solvers, unafraid to challenge assumptions by being creative and forward-thinking.
Passionate
We’re committed to excellence in everything we do, and we thrive on meaningful work.
As you can probably tell, our values are a big deal around here! You’ll see them around our offices and even on some of our employees’ social media accounts. They serve as a constant reminder of who we are and where we’re going and unify us as a global company.
In the software industry, the market is always changing – but when we’re guided by values that stand the test of time, we’re able to innovate and react to change in extraordinary ways, with exceptional results.
Stay tuned for more! In the meantime, let us know – what values are important to you? And if you’re a SAS employee, how do you see our values being lived out day-to-day?
Editor’s note: This article has been edited since it was originally published.
