In the dynamic landscape of a growing business, the importance of a sticky company culture cannot be overstated. A strong and cohesive workplace culture is not just a perk; it's a strategic asset that can propel a business to success. As companies expand and evolve, the need to attract and retain top talent becomes even more challenging, and a sticky company culture is the secret sauce that keeps employees engaged, motivated, and committed to the organisation's journey.
So what's the blueprint for building a sticky company culture? Here are a couple of elements to be thinking about.
Defining core values: The foundation of sticky culture
At the heart of any truly sticky company culture lies a set of well-defined core values. These values serve as the guiding principles that shape the identity and mission of the organisation. For growing businesses, clearly articulating these values in the early stages is the first step towards creating a culture that resonates with employees and sets the tone for the company's path.
Leadership: Leading by example
Leadership is the lighthouse that guides a company through the storms of growth. Leaders must embody the core values and behaviours they expect from their teams. A strong leadership team committed to fostering a positive and inclusive culture becomes the driving force that inspires employees to invest their best efforts in the company's success.
Communication: The glue that binds
Effective communication is the glue that binds a company together. In a growing business, where change is constant, transparent and open communication is vital. Additionally, providing radical candour— the practice of being candid and direct while also caring about the person—is a powerful way to enhance communication. This approach fosters an environment where honest and constructive feedback is valued, helping to build trust and transparency.
A culture of regular feedback is instrumental in cultivating an atmosphere of continuous improvement. By encouraging open dialogue and providing constructive feedback, employees feel supported in their professional growth, contributing to a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
Employee development: Nurturing growth and performance
Investing in employee development is an investment in the company's future. Growing businesses should provide ample learning and development opportunities to help employees enhance their skills and advance their careers. This not only contributes to individual growth but also strengthens the collective capabilities of the workforce. A robust performance enablement strategy is instrumental in aligning individual development goals with organisational objectives, ensuring that every employee is empowered to contribute meaningfully to the company's success.
Flexibility: Adapting to change and enhancing morale
As businesses grow, so do the needs and expectations of employees. For a client, we recently implemented a 9-day fortnight program to provide greater flexibility. This innovative approach has not only added a significant boost to employee morale but has also proven to be a game-changer in terms of productivity. Offering a compressed work schedule has allowed the team to achieve a better work-life balance, reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.
Recognition and rewards: Celebrating success
Celebrating successes, both big and small, is crucial for building a positive company culture. Recognition and rewards not only acknowledge individual and team achievements but also contribute to a culture of appreciation, motivating employees to consistently perform at their best.
Inclusivity and Diversity: A tapestry of strength
In an era that values diversity and inclusion, growing businesses should actively cultivate a culture that welcomes individuals from all walks of life. A diverse and inclusive workplace not only reflects societal values but also brings a rich tapestry of perspectives that can fuel innovation and creativity.
Building a sense of belonging: community in growth
In conclusion, as businesses navigate the challenges and opportunities of growth, a sticky company culture becomes a linchpin for success. By focusing on core values, effective leadership, communication, employee development, and the overall employee experience, growing businesses can create a workplace that not only attracts top talent but also retains and nurtures it for the long haul. In the competitive landscape of today, a sticky company culture is not just a nice-to-have; it's a strategic imperative for sustained success.
Check out our Kickstarter Program and PeopleEngage+ packages that have been specifically designed to help small and more established businesses build a cohesive people and culture roadmap that's unique to business aims and current needs.Â