5 things I’ve learnt about workplace culture

Workplace culture is one of the key things that people look for in a job these days - getting it right - or wrong - can have huge implications for the success of a business. For it to work it has to be inclusive and it has to be authentic. We have a motto at Disruptive ‘good work with good people’, and that’s as much lived internally as it is used outwardly with clients. Here, our incredible content and search specialist Alison Zak-Collins explores the 5 things she’s learnt about being part of an engaging workplace culture.

1) Find your employee tribe

Given that we spend almost 90,000 hours of our lives working (I know!) finding employees who fit with who you are as a business is super important. When employees feel like they belong, they are happier, more engaged and more productive. Fitting in with your team at work is one way to create a sense of belonging. When you feel like you're part of the team, you're more likely to go above and beyond to help your team succeed. 

Nurturing a sense of belonging among employees can be achieved through a variety of means, such as providing opportunities for social interaction, encouraging collaboration, and promoting open communication. By creating an environment where employees feel included and valued, businesses can improve employee engagement and overall productivity. 

So, when looking for your ideal employees, try to distil who you are on your social media channels, website and ‘about’ section. Showcasing your values and business drivers will soon allow you to attract a tribe of like-minded people to take your business to the next level.

2) Get purpose-driven

In recent years purpose-driven businesses have been gaining in popularity. Did you know that putting purpose at the front and centre of your business will skyrocket your employee engagement too? McKinsey & Co state that 62% of people are looking for more meaning in their work. So, if you’re able to unite your team behind a shared set of values or mission, they will have more job satisfaction and feel a level of excitement about their job, which ultimately means they will likely be more productive and stay with you for longer.

Studies have also shown that purpose-driven businesses are more successful than their more traditional profit-first counterparts. Consumers are increasingly interested in supporting businesses with values that align with their own, and purpose-driven businesses are better able to tap into this trend. So if you're wondering whether your business should have a purpose, the answer is a resounding yes!

3) Educate your leaders

Employers are often quick to educate their employees on the company's values and mission, but they often overlook the importance of educating their leaders. Leaders set the tone for the rest of the team and play a vital role in shaping company culture. When leaders are educated on the employer's expectations, they can more effectively motivate and inspire their team members. Furthermore, educated leaders are better equipped to handle conflict and provide constructive feedback. As a result, employers should make educating their leaders a priority to create a positive and productive workplace. 

Moreover, leading a business in today's climate requires a keen understanding of the importance of diversity. Business leaders must be able to shape diverse teams that are engaged and invested in their work. This can be a challenge, but it is essential for success. By valuing diversity and fostering an environment of inclusion, business leaders can create teams that are innovative, productive, and committed to the success of the business. When employees feel valued and respected, they are more likely to be engaged in their work and motivated to contribute to the success of the company. Inclusion is not simply a "nice-to-have" – it is a business imperative. Those who embrace diversity and build inclusive teams will reap the rewards in the form of employee engagement and business success.

4) Listen to your employees

In any successful business, it is essential to listen to your employees. They are the ones on the front line, dealing with customers and clients every day. As such, they have a unique perspective on what is working well and what needs to be improved. Soliciting feedback from employees can help to identify areas of potential improvement before they become major problems. Additionally, employees can act as a "temperature test" for the business as a whole. If they are unhappy, it is likely that other members of the team are as well. By taking the time to listen to employee concerns, you can create a more positive work environment and ensure that your team is operating at its best.

5) Celebrate your differences

In today's workplace, diversity is more important than ever. A variety of perspectives and backgrounds helps teams to be more creative and innovative, and it can also lead to better decision-making. When everyone feels like they can bring their unique perspective to the table, it can help to create a more positive and productive work environment. Celebrating your differences at work is one way to help build a more diverse and inclusive workplace. It can help people feel appreciated and valued, and it can also encourage them to open up and share their ideas. When everyone feels like they belong, it can make a big difference in terms of team morale and performance. So if you're looking for ways to build a happy and successful team, start by celebrating the diversity of your workforce.

And, if you’re considering joining Disruptive Thinking, you’d better have an opinion on whether you like your cream tea the Devonshire or Cornish way!