Company culture can help or hurt your company. But let’s take a step back and ask: What really defines company culture, and why should it matter to you? In this article, we’re going to take a look at company culture and some of the misconceptions that might be affecting your work life.
What is company culture?
Company culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape the environment within an organization. It’s like the personality of a company, defining how employees interact with each other and how they approach their work. While it might seem intangible, company culture has a significant impact on an organization’s success.
Fact: Company culture drives employee engagement
One important fact about company culture is that it plays a crucial role in employee engagement. When employees feel a strong connection to their company’s values and mission, they are more motivated to perform their best. A positive company culture fosters a sense of belonging and encourages employees to go the extra mile.
A recent study included more than 82,000 teams in 230 organizations — and 1.8 million employees.
Team members with higher levels of engagement:
- They produce better results.
- They treat customers better and attract new ones.
- They’re more likely to stick around.
So if you want a high-performing team, make sure your members are engaged!
Fiction: Company culture is all about perks
A common misconception is that company culture is solely about offering perks like free snacks, ping-pong tables, or casual dress codes. While these things can be nice, they don’t define the core of a company’s culture. True company culture goes much deeper, reflecting the organization’s values and how it treats its employees.
Fact: Building trust and transparency is important
Trust and transparency are essential components of a strong company culture. When employees trust their leaders and believe that they have access to honest information, they are more likely to feel secure and satisfied in their jobs. Building trust comes from open communication. In our study of more than 900 professionals, we asked respondents if they felt like leadership clearly communicated expectations. Of those surveyed, 88% confirmed they did and approximately 70% of employees felt positive about their company culture. Clear communication is correlated with employee satisfaction.
Fiction: Company culture can be one-size-fits-all
Another misconception is that there is a one-size-fits-all approach to company culture. In reality, each organization is unique, and its culture should reflect its specific goals and values. What works for one company may not work for another, and that’s okay.
Fact: Culture impacts customer relations
Company culture doesn’t just affect employees; it also has an impact on how customers perceive the brand. A positive company culture can lead to better customer service and a more positive reputation in the market.
Fiction: Company culture can be ignored
Some might think that company culture is a luxury that can be ignored when things get tough. However, neglecting culture can lead to high turnover, decreased productivity, and a negative impact on the bottom line. It’s a crucial factor in long-term success.
Fact: Continuous improvement
Company culture is not static; it can evolve and change over time. Successful organizations are those that regularly assess and adjust their culture to meet the changing needs of their employees and the market.
Fiction: Culture can be changed overnight
While culture can evolve, it’s not something that can be changed overnight. It takes time and consistent effort to shift the values and behaviors within an organization. Quick fixes rarely lead to lasting cultural improvements.
Company culture is not just a buzzword; it’s a critical factor in an organization’s success. A positive culture that values employees, promotes inclusivity, and fosters trust can lead to higher engagement, better customer relations, and improved overall performance. However, it’s important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to company culture. It’s not just about perks or quick fixes but rather about creating a lasting and meaningful environment that benefits everyone involved. So, remember, when it comes to company culture, the facts matter.
Fact: We can help you cultivate a great company culture
Your business is only as good as your people, and we know just how hard it is to find the right people in the behavioral healthcare industry. When dealing with sensitive and personal issues like mental health or substance abuse, not just any employee will do.
Jordan and Associates Consulting specializes in behavioral health recruiting and will be your trusted partner in hiring the right people. If you have a good team in place, we can offer coaching and training on admissions, referrals, and other critical aspects of the behavioral healthcare industry.
Want the latest trends and tips related to behavioral health? Sign up for our email list to stay ahead of the trends.
