Start Here to Cultivate a Work Positive Culture
Sep 08, 2024
You know a positive work culture grows people and profits. You’ve read the studies that indicate the average results:
- Productivity increases by 30%
- Operating income grows 19%
- Revenue goes up 28%
But where do you start? And how?
I had the privilege of interviewing some of the brightest persons in work culture during Season 2 of the Work Positive Podcast. I learned so much from gurus AND those leading HR in extraordinary companies recognized as Best Places to Work.
I distilled the wisdom gained into five actionable keys. Regardless of where you are in your company’s Work Positive Culture journey, you can implement these today. If you’re ready to start and looking for the best place to begin, these five actionable keys are for you. Start fostering a more positive work culture today as you:
- Listen Actively and Seek to Understand
One thing my guests emphasized repeatedly is the power of active listening. Melissa Daimler of Udemy encouraged us to listen for the values and behaviors that align with our organization's mission. Robert Garcia of ICF advocated for a "coach approach" of asking powerful questions and genuinely seeking to understand. Try listening more than talking in your next work conversation. You might be surprised at what you learn!
- Lead by Example
A positive work culture transformation starts at the top of the org chart! Heather Andrade-Neumann of Golden 1 Credit Union reminded us to be the role model our team needs. It's not about what we say, but what we do. Joshua Freedman of 6 Seconds emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. Identify one positive behavior you want to see more of in your work culture and commit to embodying it consistently. Watch how it ripples out!
- Show Genuine Care and Respect
In the hustle and bustle of work, it's easy to forget we're dealing with human beings, not just job titles. Carmen Ruiz, owner of FAST SIGNS of Daytona Beach beautifully advised us to "lead with dignity" in all interactions. Nicole Turner, the Culture Pro, stressed the importance of giving people grace and showing compassion. Check in with a colleague each day, not about work, but about how they're doing in life generally. Empathize and care about them beyond their team role.
- Foster Psychological Safety and Inclusion
It’s unrealistic to expect employees to bring their best selves to work if they lack psychological safety and can’t be who they are. S. Renee Smith gave us a powerful action step: reach out to someone different from you and show them "I see you, I hear you, and you matter." Help create a culture where everyone feels valued and included. Get started on this fourth actionable tactic in your next team meeting. Make a conscious effort to invite input from someone who rarely speaks up.
- Prioritize Employee Wellbeing
The fifth best practice tactic from Season 2 of the Work Positive Podcast is to focus on wellbeing. Gerald Leonard reminded us of the importance of taking breaks, especially between virtual meetings. Greg Kettner, our Work Happy friend, had an interesting take, advising leaders to "be more selfish" in taking care of themselves so they can better support their teams. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup!
These five keys:
- listen actively and seek to understand
- lead by example
- show genuine care and respect
- foster psychological safety and inclusion, and;
- prioritize employee wellbeing
are the building blocks of a positive work culture. They're more than one-and-done actions. It takes an ongoing commitment to show up as our best selves and encourage others to do the same.
Select one of these keys and implement in your work culture this week. Get started on transforming your work culture to positive.
Be sure to share your experiences with us on LinkedIn or in the comments below this blog.
You have the power to transform your work culture, one positive action at a time. Get started today with these five keys!
Stay tuned for Season 3 of the Work Positive Podcast!
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