Our Guiding Principles

When we act in ways that are true to our guiding principles, we deliver results that make a difference in the community, and we are proud of the work we do. 

• Deliver the things that matter. We deliver results that really matter to our clients, by generating consensus on goals, by focusing on priorities and relevancies, and by professional follow-through and follow-up. We adapt to challenges and issues as they arise.
• Strive to exceed our clients' expectations. We align with our clients clear expectations, and deliver the goals we have mutually set. We work in a timely manner with abundant communication and provide our services for an affordable fee. We have satisfied clients.
• Understand local nonprofits and the nonprofit sector. We understand the ways in which the nonprofit sector differs from the business world, and we understand the specific challenges facing nonprofits.
• Clear communication. We are open, honest, and straightforward. We give clear, constructive feedback to clients and to one another, discussing our successes and failures so we may learn from them. We honor confidentiality. We deal with issues openly, and we speak directly to others when we have a problem, rather than indirectly or surreptitiously.
• Work together. We work in partnership with clients, sharing knowledge and experience, collaborating to achieve alignment on methods and goals. We are members of an ESC-wide team, supporting and respecting one another, and trusting one another to do an exemplary job.
• Take responsibility, act thoughtfully, and be accountable. We deliver our commitments, individually and collectively. We get involved, we follow through, and we complete assignments in a timely and professional manner. We act thoughtfully and deliberately, always with the ultimate goal in mind.
• Build confidence and energy. We support and encourage one another, and we don't forget to offer praise when it is earned. We recognize each other's individual values and qualities, and we always strive to bring out the best in one another. We are enthusiastic about what we do and how we do it.
• Manage the ESC professionally. We recruit experienced business executives and professionals, and train them in our consulting theory and methodology. We regularly monitor and evaluate our projects and other services, to assure the highest quality. We are committed to continuously evaluating and upgrading our skills and services.
• Celebrate success, recognize contribution, and have fun. We celebrate our successes with clients and with each other at monthly luncheons, special get-togethers, and semi-annual recognition events. We reward outstanding work.
• Value our important relationships, partnerships, and collaborations.  We recognize and value our special relationships with Colorado Mountain College and the Aspen Community Foundation.   Through our work with local nonprofit organizations, we strive to enhance CMC's and ACF's connections to the community.