Dive Brief:

• Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi rolled out new values for the ride-hailing company following months of controversy, reports the Washington Post. Replacing the old "always be hustlin'" and "super-pumped" mantras are slogans such as "We do the right thing. Period" and "We celebrate differences" in a list of 14 cultural norms. 
• Khosrowshahi solicited ideas from more than 1,200 employees and held more than 20 focus groups to formulate the list. Rejecting the term "values" for "norms," he told the Post that Uber has always embraced change and will continue to grow and approach its culture the same way.
• The company held on to a few norms left over from previous days, such as "we value ideas over hierarchy," with the belief "that the best ideas can come from anywhere"; "big bold bets," to encourage employees to think like company owners; and "obsessed," a reference to being customer-focused.  

Dive Insight:

Heads of embattled companies can take bold, often necessary steps to make a cultural overhaul. Khosrowshahi, who replaced Travis Kalanick as Uber's CEO, took the more unusual step of soliciting employees' input in drafting the list of new norms. Requesting employees' feedback for a major company change can enhance engagement and offer hope for a reformed work environment.

Companies must reshape their image and brand when allegations of misconduct go public. The ability to stay competitive in attracting, hiring and retaining talent after a high-profile scandal is critical. Although many companies face misconduct allegations, such as sexual harassment, discrimination and cyber breaches, according to a Navex Global study, only a handful have pledged to overhaul their cultures or make critical adjustments. Companies must not only agree to change; they also must publicly announce change and follow through on their pledge if they want to regain credibility.