What it Means to Put Culture First [from a business owner]

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When a group of people work together to achieve a common goal and when their personal values are in alignment with the organization's, that's an example of a business leading with its culture. Putting your people ahead of your strategies and business goals, and creating an environment where employees feel valued, is putting culture first. Unfortunately, there are some businesses that do not believe in putting their culture above their sales.

Leading with culture is one of the biggest leverages any organization can use.

Culture is directly related to key factors such as performance, profits, and customer experience.

In today’s workforce its common to see a focus on leadership and turning profits. They believe their policies and procedures are what keeps the business moving forward, and while that's true, it's important to remember that culture eats strategy for breakfast.

Most of the policies and procedures are created without considering the employees who are doing the actual labor. There is a big difference in what works in theory and in practice.

Cultural shifts typically come from the top down, and through CEO's and division heads. Although lawsuits and mass firings, layoffs and economic downturns

can change a business culture, too. When businesses choose not to put culture first there are issues that will arise. Employees will have a lack of loyalty, for example.

It's extremely difficult to succeed in an environment, any environment, where you don't share the values of the people and organization you work with.

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to peek into the Googleplex in California, you’d see what looks like an adult playground rather than the typical workplace

filled with cubicles. While these nice perks add to the uniqueness of Google’s culture, this only makes up a small piece of what culture is all about.

Communication is key in any business for growth and productivity. Effective

communication develops a good working relationship between you and your staff, which improves morale, and let's be honest -- saves time too.

Knowing how to treat people is essential and fundamental to any organization.

Most Great Place to Work-certified companies have capitalized on this aspect and have been able to retain their best talent.

Organizations that make people their employees feel valued, receive the best work from that employee too. 

"Positive culture is a vital aspect of running a business–more than 50% of executives say corporate culture influences productivity, creativity, profitability, firm value, and growth rates. These corporate culture statistics outline how important culture is in attracting, retaining, and satisfying employees." - Lisa O'Malley

When people feel cared for, they do their work with intrinsic motivation and a deeper sense of meaning. They are also more likely to be more engaged in their work.

As a business owner I value the people who work around me and give their best, so I look for ways to make them feel valued as part of my business.

Is your company experiencing a low performing culture?

About the Author

Cynthia Jones

A former Fortune 500 Cybersecurity Analyst turned Mindset and Life coach. She holds a Master of Science in Cyber Security Policy and a Master of Science in Information Assurance. Cynthia is passionate about helping individuals particularly women, groups, and even organizations become inspired, productive, and particularly more fulfilled with their life’s dreams. As a prestigious coach, she often employs patience and experience to quickly identify problems and come up with solutions that change lives. Visit her at royalhorizonconsultant.com

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