How to Create a Healthy Workplace Culture
The culture of a workplace is a combination of the values and the behaviours of staff and it differs from business to business. The culture is often implied, rather than defined and the importance of a healthy, happy workplace can never be underestimated. A healthy workplace culture is one where employees have an opportunity to grow, feel safe, able to express themselves and overall, they feel happy.
We have probably all worked in a workplace where the culture is toxic; everyone is negative, there are no opportunities to grow, opinions and views are not recognised. This negative culture can start with just one person and it can quickly become the norm. A toxic workplace fosters negative attitudes, low morale and reduced productivity. According to a global survey by EY, less than half of workers have trust in their employers, boss or colleagues.
If you invest in the culture of your organisation, you’ll find that your employees are happier, more productive and likely to bring fresh ideas to the table. A happy culture is better for your business as a whole and your retention rates. No matter what your culture currently looks like, you can turn it around and these are some steps you can take to create a healthy, happier workplace.
Hire the Right People
A healthy, happy workplace culture starts from the top. If your managers are displaying signs of discontent, it is likely to filter through to all of your staff and you’ll soon find that even your most positive employees will be showing signs of negativity. This can be extremely subtle and before you know it, you have a toxic culture to deal with. This is why it is fundamental to recruit the right people, especially those in senior positions. Make sure you have the right resources in place to hire great leaders who will be able to motivate and engage your staff. Attitude is everything and it is imperative that your managers have a positive one.
Improve Communication
One of the most common reasons for a negative culture in an organisation is poor communication. If you don’t communicate regularly with your employees by updating them on any developments in the business or asking them to share their ideas and opinion, you’ll soon find that employees will become frustrated and unhappy. A positive environment involves open, honest communication and a safe environment where staff feel able to express their ideas and opinions. If you get communication right, you’ll grow your business and create a positive culture.
“Communication is not just about speaking or reading, but understanding what is being said – and in some cases what is not being said” – Richard Branson
Flexible Working
It is important to understand that employees are not robots, and a bit of appreciation and flexibility will go a long way. In this day and age, there is really no reason why employers can’t offer some flexibility with working hours or conditions. If you allow your employees freedom in their role, including the ability to work remotely or adapt their working hours to suit their circumstances, it will greatly improve your culture. Many businesses are now adopting a more flexible environment and if you want to hold onto your staff, you’ll consider doing the same.
Pay close attention to the culture of your organisation and any changes in attitudes which may affect this. If you adopt these strategies and regularly check in with your employees, you’ll not only improve your culture but also the success of your business. A negative culture will ultimately influence your bottom line, so it makes sense to pay close attention to this.
