In this blog, I discuss what workplace culture really is, why it is so important and why you should care about it.. a lot!
Workplace culture consists of 2 things:
- The relationships between people
- The things that people do
1. The relationships between people
Ask yourself the following reflective questions:
- What are the relationships like at your workplace?
- Do people show respect to each other or do they disrespect each other?
- Do people have healthy debates or constantly engage in unhealthy conflict that has no resolve?
- Do people have fixed or growth mindsets?
- How do people cope with change in the organisation?
- What is communication like in your workplace?
The relationships we have with one another at work affect our workplace culture. If there is a lack of respect for each other, a lack of trust, a lack of compassion and a lack of caring for each other, workplace culture will suffer. However, on the other hand, if people respect each other, trust each other, have compassion towards each other and truly care for each other, workplace culture will thrive.
2. The things that people do
What are the unwritten rules at your workplace or organisation? What are unwritten rules? Unwritten rules in the workplace, often referred to as workplace norms or informal codes of conduct, are a set of expectations and behaviours that employees follow, even though they are not explicitly documented in company policies or formal guidelines. These unwritten rules shape the work culture and influence how employees interact with each other and perform their job duties.
So, think about what the unwritten rules in your workplace are. What things do people do, that are potentially unacceptable, but because everyone does it, no one cares and there are no consequences? For example, lunch breaks. Does everyone return to work on time after their lunch break, or do they simply take their time? After all, no one cares, and their line managers never speak to them about returning late. This mindset can quickly spill over into other job tasks and therefore productivity and ultimately the company’s bottom line will suffer.
Why Should you care about workplace culture?
As a leader, understanding and nurturing a positive workplace culture is crucial. It’s more than just creating a pleasant work environment; it’s about fostering a space where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated.
The culture you cultivate directly influences employee engagement, productivity, and retention. It shapes how your team approaches challenges, collaborates, and innovates. A strong culture not only improves the day-to-day experience for your team but also enhances your organisation’s reputation, attracting top talent and clients. Remember, as a leader, you set the tone. Your commitment to a healthy workplace culture is your commitment to the success and well-being of your team and, ultimately, your organisation.
So, what can you do?
Here are 4 steps that you can follow to commence changing workplace culture in your workplace:
- Start with yourself. Self-reflect: Ask yourself the following questions: Am I part of the problem? Do I inadvertently encourage gossip? Do I gossip myself?
- Make a decision that you are going to change the culture and the environment in your workplace. Make a commitment “On XXX (date) I am committing to change my behaviour and to change the culture”
- Speak with your team about the relationships and how they treat each other. Ask them to commit to each other as well that they’ll treat each other with respect, won’t gossip and will resolve conflict in a reasonable manner.
- Speak to your team about the unwritten rules that you have noticed and implement new unwritten rules whereby everybody does the right thing all the time, whether someone is looking or not.
Take your team from toxic to thriving
Explore our program From Gossip to Growth where you’ll learn a step-by-step process of eradicating workplace gossip and creating the thriving and positive culture you and your team desire.