There is no single “correct” corporate culture. As every business is different, so is their ideal corporate culture. However, one thing is consistent – each organization needs a strong and consistent set of values which, in turn, creates the foundation of corporate culture. In a recent article from Forbes, the author concludes that corporate culture is becoming increasingly important as the modern workplace continues to evolve.
A company’s corporate culture should be closely aligned with its business strategy. Once this is achieved, the effectiveness, relevance, and organizational viability of an organization will soar. However, many successful organizations who have an exceptionally strong strategy fall short when it comes to the deliverance of an equally strong corporate culture. Often, the culture of an organization does not get the senior attention it deserves. In some mid to large size organizations, the human resources function is tasked with handling such matters, making it only of limited importance to the business as a whole.
Entrepreneur magazine recently ran an article profiling companies with what they considered “fantastic corporate cultures.” What was the consistent quality among these organizations? A fantastic culture is one where the shared beliefs and values are expressed through goals that serve to guide the activities of the employees and the management alike. Here are some common factors to consider:
- A clearly defined organizational culture. By establishing the cultural norms within the company, you clearly establish what is acceptable and what is not. When the culture is correctly aligned with the needs, drivers, and values, it can help the team unleash phenomenal levels of focus and energy towards a common purpose.
- A shared corporate culture. A culture cannot be created nor implemented by only individuals – it must belong to the entire organization. It is derived from shared behaviors, ideals, and values. Culture is, quite simply, the unwritten rules of the company norm.
- The culture is enduring. The corporate culture directs the actions and thoughts of the entire organization over a sustained period of time. It becomes a social pattern that can resist the strongest of outside influences. It is highly regarded and attracts employees with values that mirror their own.
How to Verify Your Culture is on Track
In order to understand where the culture of your company is right now, you can perform a quick audit. Ask yourself the following:
- Is the culture at your company truly defined? If so, where? More importantly, is this information readily available to both new and existing team members?
- Does your team understand the organizational culture and your brand values? If you don’t know, do a quick survey.
- Is it consistent? Make sure your leaders and management are staying true to your company ideals.
Once you complete the audit, you will have a better understanding where things stand within your origination and you will be better able to formulate a plan to correct (if needed) and enhance the corporate culture going forward.
Remember, there is not a “one-size-fits-all” approach when corporate culture is concerned. It is very personal and it needs to be a tailored fit to the organization and its shared values. Please contact me today if you would like to discuss ways in which you can assess and improve your organization’s corporate culture.
