Whether we realize it or not, each of our organizations has a unique workplace culture. Have you ever had a feeling or impression walking into a business based on your initial observations and interactions? Chances are you have experienced a glimpse of workplace culture in action. Culture is a set of values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors shared by a group of people. It’s the way we interact with others, the way we go about work and the practices of our work environment. Organizational cultures can vary greatly. Cultures can range from being traditional and hierarchical to casual and collaborative. Building and sustaining a solid positive organizational culture is one way of showing that your people are your most valuable asset. Companies with a strong organizational culture gain a competitive edge, reaping the benefits of loyal employees and increased profitability.
Here are some examples of organizations with impressive work cultures:
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines’ culture is what has set them apart from other airlines and companies since they started in 1971. A big part of the Southwest culture is ‘Living the Southwest Way.’
Their core values are: Warrior Spirit, Servant’s Heart, Fun-LUVing Attitude and Getting Excellent Results.
For those of us that have personally experienced flying with Southwest, we can certainly attest that flying with them was a memorable experience. They are focused on the customer and they have a lot of fun while doing it. Culture matters. Here is a sampling of rewards and accolades that Southwest has earned over the past couple of years.
- Ranked #1 Most Reliable Airline for Dependability, Forbes Magazine, 2008
- Ranked # 1 Friendliest Airline, TIME.com, 2008
- Most Admired Airline, Fortune Magazine 2009
- Leader in Corporate Social Responsibility, Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship & Reputation Institute, 2009
- Best Value, Best Consumer On-time Estimates and Best Luggage Policy of all domestic airlines, Zagat 2009
Google is another example of an organization with a progressive and unique organizational culture.
Since opening in 1998, Google maintains a small company feel in spite of becoming a large employer and household name. At lunchtime, almost everyone eats in the office café, sitting at whatever table has an opening and enjoying conversations with ‘Googlers’ from different teams. Their commitment to innovation depends on everyone being comfortable sharing ideas and opinions. Every employee is a hands-on contributor, and everyone wears several hats. Executives and employees at Google believe every employee is equally important and part of their success. No one hesitates to pose questions directly to founders in their weekly meetings – or spike a volleyball across the net at a corporate officer.
Google has a clear message about who they are and has created a culture that fosters a relaxed and collaborative work environment with direct access to senior leadership.
Google consistently ranks at the top of Fortune Magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. Google ranked #1 out of 100 Companies in 2007 & 2008 and ranked #4 for 2009.
The benefits of a healthy work culture are tenfold. A strong culture attracts and retains talent, engages employees, and increases your bottom line. Typically the best source of applicants comes from employee referrals. If your employees are happy at work they are more likely to recruit their friends or acquaintances to come to work for your organization. Highly engaged employees outperform unengaged employees by 20-28% (The WOW Workplace). Employees want to be engaged at work, naturally providing employers the opportunity to create a fulfilling and rewarding culture and allowing employees to be their best. A powerful culture enables employees to form valuable relationships with their leaders and clients and creates a sense of loyalty and commitment to your organization.
Human resource professionals have a unique opportunity to become a culture leader and partner with organizational leaders, including your marketing team, to ensure the culture is transparent to both internal and external customers. Identifying and building a workplace culture is the first step. Organizations should be intentional about what their culture stands for and communicate and live their values each and every day. It’s important that this message starts from the top. Developing a “culture team” or “culture committee” within your organization is also an effective and collaborative way to identify, communicate and carry out company culture initiatives.
A compelling workplace culture is what ultimately sets your company apart and allows your organization to grow in a positive and sustainable manner. It’s important to define the organization’s culture, live it and be accountable to it. Through promoting and being purposeful about what makes your organization unique, you are creating a memorable and lasting experience for those you do business with, and those that you would like to do business with in the future. Strengthen your organization’s success by celebrating and fostering what makes your organization extraordinary!