Workplace culture refers to the collective values, beliefs, behaviours, and norms that shape how employees interact with one another and engage with their work within an organisation. It acts as the underlying ethos that informs everyday activities and decisions, influencing everything from employee morale to productivity levels.
The core components of workplace culture include:
Values: These are the guiding principles that dictate how an organisation operates and what it prioritises. Values reflect the organisation’s mission and vision, influencing behaviour and decision-making. For instance, a company that prioritises customer service will embed values such as empathy, responsiveness, and quality into its operations.
Norms: Norms are the unwritten rules and expectations that shape how employees behave daily. They encompass the standard practices and behaviours that are typically accepted and expected in a particular workplace. For example, in some organisations, it might be standard to engage in informal discussions during team meetings, while in others, a more formal approach is taken. Norms significantly influence the work environment, affecting collaboration and communication styles.
Behaviours: Behaviours are the observable actions and interactions of employees within the workplace. These behaviours are influenced by the underlying values and norms, creating a distinct culture. For instance, in a positive workplace culture, employees may exhibit supportive behaviours, such as recognising each other’s achievements or assisting colleagues in their tasks. In contrast, in a toxic culture, you might observe competition over collaboration, leading to a lack of trust and morale.
Workplace culture profoundly affects employee behaviour and performance. When employees feel aligned with the organisational culture, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Engagement directly correlates with productivity, job satisfaction, and retention rates.
Consider Salesforce, a company known for its emphasis on employee engagement and wellbeing. The organisation’s values of trust, customer success, innovation, and equality create a strong foundation for its culture. Salesforce encourages employees to share ideas openly and collaborate across teams, resulting in high levels of engagement and productivity. This commitment to culture has positioned Salesforce as one of the top companies to work for globally.
In contrast, organisations like Uber in its earlier years faced challenges due to a toxic culture that prioritised aggressive competition over employee welfare. Reports of harassment and unethical behaviour highlighted the consequences of neglecting workplace culture. The negative impact on employee morale and retention rates ultimately prompted significant leadership changes and cultural reforms.
In summary, understanding workplace culture is essential for leaders aiming to foster a positive environment. By recognising the values, norms, and behaviours that define their organisation, leaders can take intentional steps to shape a culture that aligns with their strategic goals.
