56% of workers ranked a strong workplace culture as more important than salary, with about 75% saying they’d first consider a company’s culture before applying for a job there.
Source: Glassdoor
Team culture is a collection of values, beliefs, and behavioural standards that employees share. A company’s workplace culture is reflected in how its leaders and employees behave while representing the organisation, interacting with each other, handling conflicts, performing job duties, and following company policies. It is also known as company culture or workplace culture.
An Indeed study found that 72% of Australians who are currently employed have experienced some level of dissatisfaction in the workplace at some point in the past year. Furthermore, a quarter of employed Australians (26%) are seeking new employment opportunities because they are dissatisfied with their current position.
According to these results, creating a positive work culture that promotes happiness is more important than ever. Positivity in the workplace leads to improved productivity, decreased turnover, and increased employee engagement.
What are the characteristics of a good work culture?
- Employers regularly show appreciation to their employees.
- All forms of harassment, disrespect, discrimination, bullying and violence are not tolerated or excused.
- There are appropriate workload expectations, minimising employee burnout.
- Steps are taken to help employees achieve work/life balance.
- Feedback is given to employees frequently and appropriately.
In other words, a positive work culture fosters respect, trust, empathy, and support for employees at all levels in the organisation.
What are the signs of a negative work culture?
- Flexibility is not available when requested or necessary. A lack of understanding can eventually tire employees and they will cease to care as much as they once did, also known as ‘quiet quitting.’
- Employees have a fear of failure. Everybody makes mistakes, it is part of being human. Unfortunately, a toxic workplace culture however disapproves of failure and punishes mistakes.
- High turnover of employees. This often comes down to inadequate training, poor management, and a lack of growth opportunities. The way employees are treated, and the work environment, has a significant impact on productivity and retention.
How to establish a positive workplace culture
- Incorporate diversity and inclusivity into your recruitment strategy. By welcoming and celebrating the differences of individuals from all backgrounds, you can create a positive, inclusive work culture.
- Promote the organisation’s values and objectives. Set clear organisational core values should be with employees so that they feel a part of the organisation.
- Be flexible. Despite our best efforts, life will take its toll on us. Employees shouldn’t worry about repercussions for taking time off to handle emergencies.
- Hiring for cultural additions, not a cultural fit. Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace requires this approach. Rather than simply fitting a mould, consider candidates who will bring something new to your team environment.
When a company has a healthy workplace culture, it creates a positive, respected reputation for itself and the people who work there. An enjoyable working environment is one of the most important factors in attracting talented employees. By empowering their employees, companies can build positive relationships within their communities.
Establishing a successful work culture takes time – but it is worth it in the long run!
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