Workplace culture: why it is important and how to get it right

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Workplace culture: why it is important and how to get it right

The culture within any organisation is fundamental and hugely influential and a damning report following a TV documentary reinforces how important it is for employers to get it right

Workplace culture is the set of values, beliefs, norms, and behaviours that shape how employees interact with each other and others who may be impacted in the course of them performing their duties e.g. service users, customers or clients[1] cited 5.2.24

It can influence everything from employee engagement, productivity, innovation, retention and customer satisfaction.

In the modern, competitive and dynamic workplace the importance of creating the right type of culture can easily be overlooked.

When it is right, it can boost productivity, help to attract and retain the best talent and increase overall company success.

A positive workplace culture can not only enhance employee satisfaction but also play a fundamental role in the success of any business. It can have many benefits for an employer, which can include:

• Attracting and retaining top talent who share the organisation's vision and mission.
• Creating a sense of belonging, trust, and collaboration among employees.
• Encouraging creativity, learning, and growth among employees.
• Enhancing the reputation and brand image of the organisation.
• Improving the performance and profitability of the organisation.

The spotlight was recently focused on the wrong type of workplace culture after the publication of a long-awaited report.

It followed an investigation at a NHS mental health unit after an undercover BBC Panorama reporter filmed vulnerable patients being mistreated [2] cited 5.2.24

The programme found a ‘toxic culture of humiliation, verbal abuse and bullying’ at the Greater Manchester-based unit.

Employees were filmed using restraint inappropriately and swearing at and slapping patients, while some of those being cared for endured long seclusions in small, bare rooms.

An independent review found that a ‘significant cultural shift’ was required at the unit where the shocking footage was filmed [3] cited 5.2.34

The conclusion to the report included: "…The trust has many positive attributes, not least its many talented staff. It must focus on enabling those staff to thrive.

"This will require a significant cultural shift if the required changes are to happen successfully. The scale of this should not be underestimated.

"We have seen some signs that the changes are starting to happen and, if sustained, this is a positive step forward.

"We heard from some that staffing at the trust is too constrained to meaningfully change culture.

"Our view is that culture starts with the board which dictates the tone of the organisation, what is important, the extent to which staff feel listened to, and the priority given to continuously improving services…’

The report comes not long after and Independent Culture Review of London Fire Brigade (LFB) was published following the death of a young firefighter by suicide in August 2020 [4] cited 5.2.24

In response to the report the LFB said: The report painted a picture of poor behaviour and painful experiences over many years. This made the report a difficult read for us and for the communities we serve.  

It highlighted that women, Black, Asian and minority ethnic, LGBTQ+ and neurodiverse staff have experienced poor treatment and have done less well in their careers with us. Issues were also identified with leadership, and with staff fearing to speak out about abuse. Additionally, the report included examples of behaviour towards members of the public which were completely unacceptable.

LFB said it wants ‘everyone in the Brigade to feel valued, safe and accepted in their workplace’ and detailed the work it will do to improve.

A negative workplace culture can, obviously, have a negative and damaging impact on any organisation, for example:

• Creating a toxic environment where employees feel unhappy, stressed, or demotivated
• Leading to high turnover, absenteeism, and low morale among employees.
• Reducing the quality and quantity of work output. .
• Damaging the reputation and customer loyalty of the organisation.
• Increasing the risk of legal, ethical, or compliance issues.

Therefore, it is essential for every business to promote the right type of workplace culture and one that fits within its goals and values.

Why a positive workplace culture matters

Positive workplace culture may sound like a buzzword, but it is a fundamental factor in any good and successful organisation.

The workplace is where employees typically spend a vast amount of their lives, and it is an environment that will undoubtedly have a direct impact on their well-being, motivation and performance.

The right type of workplace culture can create a sense of belonging, community and camaraderie among employees. A positive working environment in which workers feel valued and appreciated is much more likely to be one in which they will engage fully in their work, collaborate with colleagues and go the extra mile to do the best job possible.

Word spreads, and the right type of culture in a workplace can help to entice and retain the best talent. It can be a hugely influential factor for job candidates, as an employer that has cultivated the right culture can be viewed as a desirable place to work. And the benefits of having a talented workforce need no explaining.

What is needed to create a positive workplace culture?

It requires a determined effort from both employers and staff. Some of the important components in creating a positive work environment are:

Clear standards and goals: Defining and communicating the employer’s standards and goals provides a shared purpose for everyone in the organisation. It can help to create a united workplace in which everyone understands and works towards a common purpose.

Effective communication: Trust is important in any relationship and it is vitally so in the working one. Open and transparent communication is essential for building trust among employees. Employers should encourage employees to freely share ideas and concerns and provide constructive feedback.

Recognition and appreciation: Everyone likes to be acknowledged for their effort and employers doing so is good for employee morale. Recognition can go a long way in creating a positive atmosphere.

Work-life balance: Encouraging a healthy work-life balance shows that the organisation values its employees' well-being.

Development opportunities: Investing in the growth and development of employees not only benefits the individual but also contributes to a positive workplace culture.

Deal with bad behaviour effectively: This is crucial for creating and maintaining a positive workplace culture. The impact of negative behaviour can be profound, affecting not only the individuals directly involved but also the overall morale, productivity, and cohesiveness of the entire team. Addressing and rectifying any bad behaviour is essential in creating the right type of culture.

The benefits of a positive workplace culture

The advantages are wide ranging far-reaching and can certainly help various aspects of any organisation.

Engaged employees are more committed to their work, leading to higher levels of productivity and innovation.

When staff feel satisfied and valued it can help to reduce turnover and recruitment costs, as they are more likely to be keen to remain with an employer that makes them feel appreciated.

A positive culture creates a confident mindset and encourages teamwork. In an environment in which employees feel fully supported and encouraged to share their ideas, creativity can inevitably flourish and it can drive improvement within an organisation.

And of course, employees who are engaged and feel good about their working environment are more likely to provide exceptional customer service, which is important because it is the direct connection between the customers and a business

In conclusion

Workplace culture is not something that can be created overnight. It requires constant attention, effort, and adaptation from everyone in an organisation.

Creating a positive workplace culture should not be seen as some form of feel-good initiative because it can be imperative to the success of any business.

In placing emphasis on communication, recognition, work-life balance and professional development, employers can establish a positive environment that not only attracts top talent but also fuels employee engagement and business growth.

In the current business landscape, investing in a positive workplace culture is a wise and viable choice for long-term success.