At first glance, company culture may seem like a nebulous concept says William D King. But its importance can hardly be denied given that many companies have taken this factor into account when designing their strategy and policy. As quoted by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”
So what exactly is company culture and how does it affect the overall business management?
Description:
Company culture refers to the specific way of life or shared philosophy among employees in an organization explains William D King. It embodies the values present not only at work but also away from the office such as hobbies, style of living and even eating habits. These commonalities develop over time as a result of interaction with fellow workers and exposure to new ideas. Company cultures are also influenced by the founders and leaders of the organization.
Over time, company cultures differ depending on the type of industry that is involved. For example, within a retail business, there are different types of company cultures such as those present in grocery stores and fashion boutiques. Some companies may embody a more casual atmosphere compared to others which favor more traditional styles of working. Similarly, company cultures also differ from one part of the world to another.
Organizations also consider their geographic locations when developing their company culture especially if they plan on expanding overseas. This ensures that they will be able to maintain their brand image even among new customer groups who may not understand or appreciate its unique corporate philosophy.
Importance:
Company culture is important because it plays an important role in maintaining a harmonious working environment. It is also important when it comes to developing future leaders for the organization.
For example, many companies have begun to adopt an open door policy wherein workers are allowed to voice their concerns directly with upper management without fear of reprisal; this is instrumental in creating better leaders within the company since employees do not always trust managers who only communicate through memos and other forms of written media. Other companies which rely on casual office settings believe that they can create more innovative ideas by allowing their employees to engage in brainstorming sessions outside the confines of their own work area; here, self-expression flourishes and results in new ways of approaching old problems whether at work or away from the job site.
However, company cultures can also bear negative consequences. For instance, there are companies that impose a very strict and formal office dress code even if the job does not require it says, William D King. This can lead to employees feeling too constrained in their movements and eventually quitting their jobs due to stress and lowered self-esteem.
Here are some FAQs recently asked about this article.
What are some examples of company cultures?
Apple, Google, and Zappos all have very distinct company cultures. Work at Apple is fast-pace with employees moving quickly to accomplish their tasks. This is due to Steve Jobs’ belief that doing things quickly leads to better ideas since there is less time for second-guessing decisions. At Google, work does not end until everything has been accomplish. Which explains why workers who finish early often stay late. To keep working on additional projects or help others complete theirs. Lastly, Zappos encourages its employees to treat the office as home. Though they do maintain a formal dress code during business hours. Since everyone’s first priority should be efficiency in the workplace according to CEO Tony Hsieh.
There is no correct way to develop a company culture. William D King says each organization should find its own unique approach by understanding how it wants to perceive by consumers.
What are the benefits of having a company culture?
A company culture encourages employees to build long-term relationships. Which can lead to increased employee retention rates and better customer service. Due to an enhanced sense of team spirit in the workplace.
What are some examples of bad company cultures?
Some organizations may have too much freedom when it comes to their work atmosphere. Which can lead to employees feeling overwhelmed and lacking direction. Another example is when companies do not focus on creating an environment conducive to learning. Instead, they discourage employees from challenging themselves or taking risks. Because this could even potentially hurt the business’ bottom line in the short term. When a business invests in human resources, it expects these employees to work together towards company goals. However, without a clear set of policies and guidelines. On how people should act within the organization-employees may have different ideas about what is consider ethical or acceptable? When this happens, it can be difficult to reach desired outcomes.
Conclusion:
By now, you should have learned that company culture influences just about every aspect of your business explains William D King. When creating or planning an expansion strategy. Be sure to keep the work environment in mind so that you will achieve maximum productivity from your workforce. While at the same time ensuring continued loyalty from both customers and employees.