Banners in the lobby. Posters on the wall. Mission statements on websites.
Big deal.
Do you want to know what your culture is really all about? Ask your employees.
This week I had a chance to ask a few colleagues what was unique or special about their company culture. What did I hear? "I knew my company was special when..."
Big deal.
Do you want to know what your culture is really all about? Ask your employees.
This week I had a chance to ask a few colleagues what was unique or special about their company culture. What did I hear? "I knew my company was special when..."
- The President said, "Don't worry about the money. What is the right thing to do?"
- We turned down business because the company didn’t fit our values
- We decided not to hire the superstar who didn't fit our culture
- Every person in the building knew their job was helping to save lives
- The President spent an hour helping me bring down dusty boxes from the archives
- We could have really honest conversations
- Within 45 minutes we filled a trailer with donated furniture and supplies for a coworker that lost her home in a fire
- We made sure culture and values were part of everything we do - hiring, firing, appraisals and development
- I discovered there isn't even one grumpy person on the production floor
- I enjoyed the first of many monthly breakfasts served by the executives
- I learned the President has a lemonade stand every Tuesday. Anyone can stop by to ask questions, have a conversation about business, or just visit about life.
What makes your organization special? Is it the banner in the lobby? I doubt it.