Cultivating Culture

Which came first the chicken or the egg?  

Which do we create first – the leader or the culture? 

Culture is made up of many moving and malleable parts and components and becomes a part of the organization and its individuals.

When enough people become  ‘good team leaders’  and ‘better bosses’ THEY will ultimately shift the culture and policies within the organization. 

YOU cannot shift the culture in an organization without doing the inner work that models and mentors the culture at its finest.  

Until we work on ourselves we won’t be able to bring about the effectiveness we desire. For you to be effective in cultivating a new culture within your organization you must be in Integrity.  Integrity means the management team and leaders must be living the culture they wish to cultivate.   There is no other way. 

The culture and policies become an open invitation to all – not a mandate. Culture must be inviting, supportive and empowering. Culture is lived, modeled, and mentored by its leaders. This is the power of culture. Everything starts within you.

Cultivating culture refers to the process of intentionally shaping and nurturing the values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors within an organization or community. It involves creating an environment that fosters a shared sense of identity, purpose, and collective norms. Cultivating a positive culture is important because it can influence employee or community member satisfaction, engagement, productivity, and overall well-being.

Here are some key aspects and strategies to help you understand how to cultivate culture effectively:

1. Vision and values: Clearly define the organization’s or community’s vision and values. These serve as guiding principles and provide a framework for decision-making and behavior. Communicate them consistently and align them with actions and policies.
2. Leadership: Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping and promoting the desired culture. Leaders should embody the values and behaviors they want to see in others. They should set an example, provide clear expectations, and empower others to contribute to the culture.
3. Communication: Foster open and transparent communication channels. Encourage dialogue, feedback, and ideas from all members. Regularly communicate organizational goals, progress, and changes to ensure everyone is on the same page.
4. Inclusivity and diversity: Embrace diversity and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected. Promote diverse perspectives and ensure equal opportunities for all. Encourage collaboration and discourage discrimination or bias.
5. Rewards and recognition: Recognize and reward behaviors and achievements that align with the desired culture. This reinforces positive behavior and motivates others to contribute in similar ways. Celebrate successes and acknowledge contributions to foster a sense of belonging and achievement.
6. Learning and development: Encourage continuous learning and personal growth. Provide opportunities for skill development, training, and mentorship. Support employees or community members in achieving their potential and advancing their careers.
7. Social activities and rituals: Foster social connections and create opportunities for team-building activities. Organize events, outings, or rituals that promote a sense of community and belonging. This can include team lunches, retreats, or volunteer activities.
8. Adaptability and agility: Cultivate a culture that embraces change and encourages innovation. Foster an environment where experimentation and calculated risk-taking are valued. Encourage learning from failures and adaptability to new circumstances.
9. Feedback and improvement: Establish mechanisms for gathering feedback from employees or community members. Regularly assess the culture and make adjustments as needed. Actively seek input on how to improve the organization or community’s culture.
10. Integrity:  Integrity is a personal or organizational quality that encompasses honesty, moral principles, and adherence to ethical standards. It refers to the consistency and alignment between one’s actions, values, and principles, even when faced with challenges or temptations.

Remember, cultivating culture is an ongoing process and practice that requires consistent planning, effort, and commitment. It requires the involvement and participation of everyone within the organization or community to create a positive and thriving culture.

Complete Solutions is your path to cultivating culture and a thriving environment for all. 

The right culture attracts top talent, increases participation, productivity, and profits naturally.