What type of stories are passed down that illustrate the values of an organization?

The question pertains to the concept of organizational culture, specifically the narratives that communicate and reinforce the values, beliefs, and behaviors desired within an organization. The correct answer highlights the term "stories."

In this context, stories are significant because they encapsulate the experiences and lessons learned within an organization, serving as vehicles for transmitting core values and norms to employees, especially new hires. They provide context and meaning, helping individuals understand what is important within the organizational culture. Successful stories often arise from real events that illustrate how values like teamwork, innovation, or resilience are applied in practice. This narrative form effectively engages people and allows for a deeper emotional connection to the organization's values.

While anecdotes, legends, and myths can also play a role in sharing organizational values, they each carry different implications and narrative functions. Anecdotes are short, personal stories that might not encompass broader organizational principles. Legends typically involve more exaggerated or heroic tales, and myths usually refer to traditional stories that explain phenomena or moral lessons but may lack a direct connection to contemporary organizational values. Therefore, "stories" is the most appropriate term when discussing narratives that explicitly illustrate and reinforce the values of an organization.