How to create a positive organizational culture?

We know that modern companies need a strong organizational culture aligned with their core objectives. However, that is not always easy to achieve, especially when the business is in the early stages. There are many variables to be taken into account. One of those variables are the different dimensions that any culture must have to work in a correct and positive way. 

At T2W we have extensive experience in talent administration, so we are familiar with company culture. In this article, we’ll delve into the main factors you need to consider to create a positive organizational culture. 

What is the organizational culture in a company? 

When we talk about organizational culture, we refer to the specific identity each company has and all the different factors that are part of it. In general. Culture is made of the guidelines, values and work philosophy powering the organization. Those variables will be different in each company, and they modify the way of feeling, thinking and acting employees adopt. 

How to create organizational culture in a company? 

Culture should be established as a way to help the organization meet its goals, so it must be defined based on the company’s main goals. Each company has different goals. Therefore, the idea of a positive organizational culture will change slightly in each company. Here, we show you some dimensions a modern organizational culture requires. 

1 . A culture of trust 

In general, a positive organizational culture must promote trust among employees. Employees are one of the most valuable assets in any company. Therefore, they must feel free to express all their ideas and opinions. This way, employee motivation increases and we lay the foundations of a good work environment.  

To strengthen this dimension, the people in management positions and leaders in general need to have direct and horizontal interactions with their teams. The leaders are the ones who must show the characteristics of the desired culture. If it’s done correctly, all the employees will follow the example. That way, you can integrate trust and make it a part of the working style. 

2. A culture that promotes communication 

Communication is one of the most basic dimensions of a healthy organizational culture. Through a culture that promotes communication, collaboration between employees improves as well as teamwork. As a part of the company culture, you need a special type of communication: effective communication. You probably have heard about it. 

Effective communication is the one that doesn’t lead to misunderstandings or unclear messages. To achieve that, you need three factors. First, the message sent must be clear. Next, the person receiving the message must listen actively. Finally, the context in which the message is sent must be taken into account. These concepts need to be known and applied daily by all employees. 

3. A culture of continuous learning 

Today people talk a lot about the value of continuous learning as a part of the company culture. All that hype is not just exaggeration. Continuous learning activates a virtuous circle that benefits employees as well as the organization. On the one hand, employees can grow professionally. Additionally, they know the company cares about their personal development. 

On the other hand, the organization increases employee engagement and morale, which has a direct effect on the overall company performance. For that purpose, it’s important to create an environment that fosters learning and removes the fear of making mistakes in employees. Popular initiatives today are reskilling and upskilling, which also increase employee satisfaction.  

Finally, another key element for continuous learning is feedback. It’s important to go over the strenghts and the opportunities for improvement in employee performance. Having feedback as part of organizational culture allows employees to learn from their mistakes in an environment free from fear and doubts. 

4. A culture that acknowledges effort 

The lack of motivation is one of the main obstacles for companies. In average, only 15% of employees in the world is completely engaged in their daily job. Therefore, employee recognition integrated into your culture is a great way to keep a good company performance.  

For that purpose, it’s necessary to create an employee recognition program. This comprises many variables that need to be assessed carefully such as the recognition style (public or private), the frequency of the recognition (monthly, semi-annual, yearly), the actions that will receive recognition, etc. 

Likewise, we can’t speak about recognition without rewards. These are the incentives that move employees towards the desired actions and attitudes. Consequently, the form the reward will take needs to be analyzed carefully so that it can resonate with everyone. It may take the form of career growth, free time, gifts, bonuses, etc. 

5. Balanced work 

Employee wellness is a variable that can’t be overlooked. While there are many different ways to improve employee wellness, providing balanced work is one of the most successful alternatives. What do we mean by balanced work? We are talking about the necessary balance between work and personal life that everyone needs. 

To integrate this dimension into the culture of a company, one of the basic guidelines in the organization must be the respect of working hours. Additionally, leaders and people in management positions shouldn’t send emails or messages to their respective teams outside working hours. Weekends and non-working days must be completely free so employees can have a full life. 

Now you know how to create a positive company culture. Keep in mind that culture defines the philosophy and the working style of people in an organization. Define carefully the culture that will resonate with your company. 

At Talent2Win, we strive to align your company’s business objectives with the best Talent Acquisition strategies available. If you want to learn more about the services we offer, do not hesitate to contact us.