While there are so many variables that impact workplace cultures, the number one thing that has the most significant impact might surprise you: communication.
The first place a culture will start breaking down is in communication, but conversely, it also can have the most significant positive impact on a company’s culture.
Communication is the first place for cultures starting to breakdown and is also the first place where one can have a significant positive impact on the company culture. Just like in any relationship, when employees, the leadership, and the owners have open, clear communication, everyone works better together. Trust gets built up; the mission and values of the business are clearly understood; and targets are clear, and thus easier to hit.
What are some things you can do to improve communication?
With today’s technology, it’s pretty easy to send out your message in a variety of ways. Social media, videos and audio messages, and in-company email blasts are just a few ways communication can be open to everyone at every level. Managers and leadership teams are not infallible and relying simply on them to pass the messages along can mean some things get lost in the day-to-day shuffle.
How do you tell you’re not communicating enough? Well, if your rumor mill is going crazy at the water cooler, you’re not doing enough to trust your employees and keep them informed.
There are of course times when secrets will need to be kept and not everyone can know the whole story of everything going on in the company. However, keeping your values, goals, and channels of communication open and available will go a long way to helping your employees feel valued and involved.