In my years of experience, the one thing I’ve learned is that a company’s culture can be the determining factor if employees stay at their jobs. But what exactly does that even mean? By definition, corporate culture refers to “the beliefs and behaviors that determine how a company’s employees and management interact and handle outside business transactions.” Your company probably has a written code of conduct for how you interact with your customers, and there may be some guidelines for how you interact with colleagues as well, but culture goes beyond just the written rules.
One of our core values at HR Resolutions is “going the second mile for clients is second nature.” If I’m not demonstrating that in every interaction I have with our clients, what message am I sending to my employees? I’m teaching them that they don’t have to either. If you want people to come to work on time, be the first one there, greeting them as they come in. You determine the corporate culture. Your actions, however subtle or second nature, are noticed.
If you want your corporate culture to be one that radiates positivity, then you must radiate positivity. You can’t be a “Debby Downer” and expect everyone else around you to not pick up on your attitude. I like to look at corporate culture as the golden rule: do unto others as you want done unto you. But I also think companies need to create a culture where their employees feel valued in a similar way to their customers. If you’re willing to overlook a client’s tardiness to a meeting, perhaps you can do that for your employee — especially if they’re always on time. Maybe something came up, a flat tire or their kid was sick. We all have those moments and creating a work environment that shows empathy as well as respect is one where people will want to work.
For more information about creating and demonstrating your company’s culture, visit stopknockingonmydoor.com to schedule your free consultation.