What makes a company culture great?

We know it when we see it, but what is it exactly? Claire Hastwell from Great Place to Work simply defines it as a culture “where employees feel seen and heard, where management is transparent, and where teams are proud and excited to work together.” As much as we love perks like free lunches and dog-friendly offices, culture needs more than amenities to make it great and positive. When companies value, trust, and encourage their employees both professionally and personally, a stronger culture can emerge. 

Why does a strong company culture matter? The company’s culture becomes its reputation and ultimately contributes to its success. “It’s estimated that the average adult living in the United States will spend 90,000 hours — or one-third of their lives — at work (Harvard DCE).” With this significant amount of time spent at a workplace, it becomes more important for individuals to make the right choice. Part of that choice, which is often overlooked, is workplace culture. 

Harvard explains that the impact of culture in a workplace affects individual wellbeing, and also significantly impacts “the company’s bottom line, leading to low productivity and high turnover.” Michael McCarthy points out that “the job may be in your field, the commute may be great, or the pay package may be exactly what you are asking for — or more — but that isn’t good enough.” He emphasizes how critical it is that a healthy workplace environment with effective leadership is a good fit with your values, and will “nurture you on your career journey.” 

What are some ways to build a great company culture? ThriveSparrow defines organizational culture as encompassing the values, beliefs, behaviors and practices that shape a company’s identity.  Grace Smith lays out a variety of key components which contribute towards a healthy work environment and culture. These examples provide both a clearer understanding of some of the positive work cultures a company can adopt to instill high levels of employee engagement, productivity, and long-term success. 

• Open Communication. In leadership, open communication builds trust, avoids misconceptions and promotes teamwork. Through this, employees can remain informed on shared business goals and choices. When employees and leaders can feel heard and valued, there is a greater sense of trust and transparency. This can contribute to more positive relationships, lessen conflicts, and foster a more cohesive and supportive work environment. 
• A Clear Vision Statement. When a clear vision statement and core values are communicated and upheld by all levels of the corporation, these principles can guide an organization’s actions and success. They serve as the moral compass for the company, assist in decision-making, and create alignment among leaders and employees. When individuals hold personal beliefs that align with the company’s goals, these beliefs influence how their roles are perceived, and the importance of their contributions.
• Positive Feedback and Employee Recognition. Rewarding individual and team accomplishments, milestones, and wins of all sizes with celebrations big and small reaffirms that their hard work is appreciated and ultimately helps the company succeed. Encouraging managers to give frequent feedback, peer-to-peer recognition, or offering rewards can build recognition and gratitude. This celebration of achievement creates positive attitudes and motivation within the organization. 
• Team Centered Events That Create Belonging and Purpose. Companies who use team-building events, cross-functional teams, or project management software can boost collaboration, project outcomes, and overall synergy. They can further develop communities through volunteering and social events which help employees bond personally. 
• Empowerment of Creativity and Innovation. When employees are encouraged to propose new solutions with brainstorming sessions, idea-sharing platforms, and innovation laboratories, this boosts creativity and competitiveness in a company. Companies can stimulate intrapreneurship by delegating decision-making and giving employees more control over their job, which boosts autonomy, responsibility and innovation.  
• Committing to Employee Growth and Development, both personally and professionally. Companies giving employees a clear career path and development plan gives them purpose and direction. Offerings to support continual learning using workshops, learning portals, online courses, and mentorship helps employees understand that the company is invested in their future. As they advance in training with ongoing education, employees learn new skills to stay relevant. This brings a culture of motivation, intelligence and growth that benefits the company to achieve greater success. A company that cares for its employees is without a doubt a superstar.
• Work-Life Balance. Recharged workers are more productive, engaged, and sharp. They are more likely to show up as their best and give that best to the company. Wellness initiatives such as gym memberships, mental health support, stress management programs, and wellness applications enhance the well-being of employees. Promoting a work-life balance decreases stress, and encourages healthier and happier employees that will promote loyalty, excellence, and improved outcomes for the company. 

A strong and positive work culture is essential for not only retaining valuable employees, but also attracting talent with this sense of belonging and purpose. How will you promote a great workplace culture today? 

Leading in today’s ever evolving world can be difficult, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you would like to learn more about workplace culture, leadership development, emotional intelligence training, team building, professional coaching, or strategy planning sessions, let’s talk. Contact us for a free consultation by clicking this link: Innovative Connections or calling us at 970-279-3330.

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