Building a Great Workplace Culture

A good workforce culture will manifest itself in the way its employees relate to one another, how much they enjoy their work, and their overall performance.  Are they happy to put in the extra time needed? Will they go the extra mile as a team for positive results? These core values work in any organization. Coupled with attitude, habits, beliefs, experiences, and interests, these details are some of what shapes the culture of a workplace.

In some organizations, some of these workplace cultures may come as written rules that govern the smooth operation of an organization such as Harassment, Bullying or adhering to time/attendance policies that fall under the attitude and habit culture.  These must be adhered to at all times.

The workforce environment plays a big role with culture as well.  Putting into consideration that it is a workplace, and not a playground; a relaxed environment is important. Cohesive unspoken and unwritten set of rules or daily workplace practices that both the employer and employee bring to the workplace can be a part of culture.  This can be as simple as an “inside Joke or sign” known only by the organization’s staff to use proper respectful language or for the general interaction between employees. In some workplace cultures, employees are continuously rewarded for their good behaviour.

A respected boss will yield greater results from the employees than a feared one. Employees do not need to be scampering and taking cover under their desks at the shadow of “The Boss”.  A well-engineered team will work with or without the presence of the boss.

While company rules, standards, and regulations apply to all employees on a regular basis, it takes a tactful leader who is not afraid to make and apply difficult disciplinary action without necessarily putting their employees off.

The approach that a boss uses with the employees will go a long way in terms of respect and productivity in the workplace. The good yet firm intentions will place any leader in a position of respectability and strength and the employees will know they are an asset to the company. Having sporadic “catch-up” meetings at work is advisable as it keeps everyone involved and communication lines open at all times.

Taking an interest in the employees well-being is another trait of a good employer.  Learning and remembering their names and gradually taking the time to know what’s going on in their lives yields a lasting impression on their employees.  It doesn’t need to be unnecessarily deep and personal as that may lead to some inappropriate lines being crossed.

There will always be time for work so as an employer, one can create time for other fun activities. Work and fun co-exist when done right.  Activities that can help strengthen culture may be: team building camps, cultural celebrations, jam sessions, friendly matches, etc.

Remember that it can’t always be left to chance when it comes to building a great workplace culture and teams work best when working together.