Short Decription: In this article, I share my observations on how to maintain a sense of company culture among every team member. I discuss the importance of leading by example, repeating key messages, encouraging employee input, and hiring individuals who share the company’s values. Whether you’re a leader or a team member, these tips can help you contribute to a strong company culture that benefits everyone. So, join the conversation in the comments and let me know your thoughts on the subject.
Company culture is something that not a lot of companies think about when just starting their businesses. Furthermore, I would go as far as to say that company culture is something that is determined by its founders’ personal characteristics and motivation. Employees will always follow the leader and sometimes unknowingly accept their virtues.
This can work out really well while the company is small and everyone knows everyone. But what happens once it scales?
Suddenly, simple things like water cooler conversation and inside jokes can make new employees feel alienated and not part of the gang. Therefore, you need to consider whether you’re conveying your messages properly and whether people really understand the built-in values.
In the following lines, I will share advice based on my observations on how to maintain a sense of company culture among every team member.
Acta non verba (Deeds, not words)
Every company has something known as a company mission or core values. Leaders need to lead by example and live these values. If you are in the position of a leader, whenever in doubt, revisit the core values and ask yourself whether you are following them. You can’t expect the team to follow them if you are not.
Repetitio est mater studiorum (Repetition is the mother of learning)
When a company is growing, new people are joining every day. This means that every company-wide policy or communication needs to be repeated. In case you personally can’t repeat them, make sure that your senior leaders are 100% aligned with every one of them and can effectively transfer these messages.
One of the signs of poor company culture is conflicting thoughts on simple topics. This can usually be prevented by simply repeating the key messages.
Si vis amari, ama (If you want to be loved, love)
Employees like to feel included, respected, and to have a sense of contribution. One of my favorite examples is my previous CEO who would occasionally send company-wide announcements and major updates. He would also hold a monthly company meeting that contained personal opinions and topics in addition to business metrics. In both communication channels, he would encourage employees to share their thoughts. And yes, employees sharing their thoughts live in an official meeting can lead to uncontrolled and “funny” situations. But encouraging them to do so was a clear message that transparency is part of the culture and that everyone can influence or at least share thoughts on the company’s path. This behavior also creates a sense of belonging and engagement among employees, which is crucial for maintaining a strong company culture.
Ex nihilo nihil fit (nothing comes from nothing)
While hiring the best talent is always the ultimate goal, keep in mind that the most skilled and experienced recruit is not always the best pick. When in doubt, always hire people who already share the company’s values. Remember, you are hiring a team member, someone who can cooperate and be a great fit with existing talent. Giving someone the opportunity to grow will also boost morale among other employees and make them more confident that their growth will be rewarded as well.
Let me know your thoughts on the subject in the comments.
Thank you,
Adnan
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