Set the right tone. That’s because, no matter its shape or size, each business or organization has its own “culture.” In the business world, many call it business culture, corporate culture, or organizational culture.
So…What Is a Culture?
It’s difficult to identify or diagnose in depth a business culture. However, business culture is the atmosphere which carries the day concerning employee behavior and beliefs. A business culture shows how employees and owners/managers relate with each other as well as with customers, vendors, and other stakeholders. Taking an even deeper dive into business culture, it can even dominate a business dress code (formal or informal), hours worked (flexible or stated), office configurations (open or closed), or a philosophy of how customers are treated (priority or non-priority). Business culture could even comprise of group lunches, on-site services, break rooms with games and other activities, or various employee benefits.
In general, a business culture contributes (or doesn’t contribute) to the success of a business. A culture that encompasses the mission and vision of a business in a positive manner impacts the employees’ work behavior.
Two Dissimilar Cultures
At times, the same business can feature two very dissimilar cultures. There can be a “stated” culture as well as a “hidden” culture. Business owners and managers look at the “stated” business culture as the values their employees possess and how those beliefs and attitudes impact the company’s productivity, performance, success, and long-term viability.
On the other hand, a “hidden” culture paints a more accurate picture of the two cultures that exist in a business. The “hidden” culture features the employees’ honest value and behaviors instead of the perceived values and behaviors management thinks is occurring in the business.
As you can imagine, these two cultures can undoubtedly be diverse and a complete disconnect from each other. For example, management will look at the company culture from their perspective, while the employees on the floor, in warehouses, or in the field might have a completely contrary view. Many times, management does not truly see or hear the true thoughts of employees. The ultimate results are employees shaking their heads in disbelief and frustration as to how the business truly functions. Gossip, bickering, and complaining then becomes the standard reaction from employees.
The Business About Face
You can’t expect a business to move from one level of success to a higher one without a can-do business culture. An upbeat business culture features an environment where all of the company’s values, philosophies, missions, and visions are the same. Whether they want to or not, most employees need to work. They have bills to pay. Some examples are mortgage payments and college tuition commitments. Therefore, employees want to feel involved and invigorated in their work environment. If this environment exists, businesses have the chance to change from a current state of performance to an advanced level.
However, change does not occur overnight or quickly. Culture change takes time and energy. That’s especially the case for a culture which one that has been deep-rooted for years with employees. Open communication and dialogue are necessary before any real change occurs.
Who is the Speaker?
Business owners and managers can’t expect to receive a genuine answer from employees when they’re asked about the business or its culture. That’s not reality. However, the answers become authentic when a neutral observer or third-party consultant asks the questions about business culture. The responses can be very surprising. That’s the case when management sees the business culture one way, while employees see something quite different. It’s the same business. However, there is no agreement on the business culture.
The feedback from employees at all levels of the business, must be noted if a business is serious about improving or changing its culture. The person who grumbles about the types of candy in the company’s vending machines won’t make a difference with the business culture. Instead, it is the employee who looks for a positive workplace. That employee wants to be connected and make a positive impact with a successful business. Everyone wins and succeeds whenever a business meets its goals and grows.
Culture Is Not Going Anywhere so Set the Right Tone
It cannot be ignored, but culture is part of the business fabric. It’s not disappearing in the least bit. Culture is incorporated in every business. Management holds the ultimate key in determining whether there’s a positive or negative culture. The “juice is worth the squeeze” in developing a culture which mirrors the mission and vision of a business.
How does a business accomplish this task of a positive business culture? Company leadership needs to incorporate the business’ strategies and objectives with the ethics and actions of the employees.
Improving business culture might require a business to implement a variety of changes. For example, they might include better communication techniques, enhanced employee benefits, or work/life balance changes which are closer to the needs of the workforce. The new and improved business culture may require a company to replace some employees with positive individuals who possess attitudes more in line with the business’s revised culture.
Nothing is easy in changing a business culture. However, the right business culture translates to business success. At the same time, the value of a business also increases with a positive business culture. Every business must set the right tone in creating this environment.
