Imagine you are at your annual review with your manager. It’s a typical situation: he asks what you accomplished over the past year and what your goals are for the next one.
But, right after you answer the standard questions about company culture, he contradicts it by trying to cut your salary.
A few weeks ago, I saw this firsthand. After a successful probation period, the manager began renegotiating the employee’s fixed conditions. This came after all the talk of “people first,” “honesty,” and other nice words. Isn’t that at least awkward?
What I see people value is when words align with actions, ideally with no difference at all. Values are something money can’t buy, right?
Healthy Company Culture
Company culture is about working under one roof in peace and harmony. If a company strays from its values, it should address the issue and find people who share its vision. It’s always better to work with like-minded individuals in a healthy environment.
This means sharing similar interests and having pleasant conversations between tasks. It means having clear and honest communication. And when someone makes a mistake, addressing it—nothing personal. Every company has its own culture, based on traditions, personal qualities, market demand, or a mix of these factors.
Employees in companies with a healthy culture are more likely to share ideas and take risks. They tend to own their ideas, protect them, and win backing from their team members. This alone creates a foundation for innovation and collaboration, pushing the company to new heights. People connected to their company’s mission are much more productive.
Organizational culture is beneficial not only for the internal team but also for external perceptions. Take a look at the 37 Signals employee handbook. They have made a full guide on how they operate, visible to anyone. That’s a solid commitment. As a client, I can see if the company matches my values. As a potential employee, I can determine if they are the right fit for me. For the current team, it’s a huge proof that we are working like this, and we commit to it.
Hey, it’s not always possible to find a company with great culture and traditions. But remember, you can slowly make it better. Show on your personal example how to treat people in a good way. Communicate in a calm manner things that you don’t like. And even if it’s never will be written in handbook, you will set a standard for your closest circle.
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