So my question to you last week was:
What is the formula for creating a culture that is a competitive advantage for your company?
I wanted to share with you the responses I received and then add my two cents:
1) The values of an organization must be articulated to employees (how business owners want to conduct business)
2) Those values must be cascaded into everyday processes, policies, procedures, relationships, etc.
3) Human performance has to be aligned with the values as a way of doing business.
(thanks to Debbie King of Evolution Management for 1-3)
4) Hire people that are aligned with the organizational values
5) Review values regularly with all employees by CEO (even review at the beginning of team meetings)
6) Employees should be empowered in the decision making process to determine how decisions align with organizational values.
7) Communication and leadership are key in the process. Leadership must demonstrate behaviors that are expected in the organization.
(Thanks to Melany Gallant with Halogen Software for 4-7)
8) Values that truly connect with people's higher aspirations (to improve, to serve, to create a better tomorrow) are easier to build culture on as employees can get behind these. Companies that have a more profit mind set might find it more difficult to build culture around.
(Matt contributed #8, no last name or company)
Ok.. here is my two-cents:
I agree with everything mentioned above. Culture must be grounded in values that drive behaviors. Employees need to understand those values and behaviors and the consequences of not behaving according to values. Managers have to make decisions based on those values and hold others accountable for the same.
Culture is a very delicate thing. It takes constant reinforcement and deliberate "care." But, the rewards are many. Just look at those who get it and do it right....the return is huge.
Who wouldn't want to work for Zappo's? The Ritz-Carlton?
Why do customers love the Zappo's and the Ritz experience? You can buy shoes and get a room anywhere...it's the employees delivering a world-class customer experience grounded in a culture that values the same.