How To Create A Workplace Culture That Feels Good

Have you ever noticed what happens when you have a negative feeling? You may tense up or even shut down. Well, imagine this is happening in your workplace, to your team. Their employee experience is negative and they are turned off by the workplace culture. This is the last thing we want our people to feel like. We want to create a workplace culture that feels good for everyone.
Our bodies are percipient forms. They perceive direct signals from our environment that our brains (through mindset) sometimes misinterpret. Our mindset is the lens we look through. Much like wearing rose-coloured glasses or a negative set. What we see will be distorted and changed by whichever lens we choose. How your team members perceive you as the leader and the organisation is key.
People are open and receptive when they are in a state of growth. According to Lipton, every living cell can only be in one of two states: growth or defence. In growth, the cell wall is open much like a screen door – allowing the transfer of information flow in and out. In defence, it is more like a solid door – closed down to the environment in full protection mode.
If that is the case, wouldn’t you want your team to perceive your actions with the intentions you put behind them? But how can they if they don’t have your worldview or if they are looking at you from a closed-off state – one of defence? If the energy we emanate is negative, it can put our team on the defensive. Creating a workplace culture of open receptivity is the quickest way to create engagement. It is a way to ensure employee experience is a positive one.
A feel-good workplace culture is the cornerstone of a thriving organisation. It’s an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and motivated to contribute their best efforts towards the company’s goals. This culture is characterised by open communication, mutual trust, and a shared vision. It’s a place where diversity is celebrated, and every individual’s unique skills and perspectives are harnessed to foster innovation and growth. A study by the University of Warwick found that happiness led to a 12% spike in productivity, demonstrating the tangible benefits of a feel-good work culture.
Developing a positive workplace culture requires a concerted effort from both management and employees. It starts with establishing a clear and compelling company vision that aligns with the values of the employees. Open communication should be encouraged, and feedback should be welcomed and acted upon. Recognising and rewarding employee achievements, promoting work-life balance, and investing in employee development are other key strategies. Companies like Innocent Drinks have successfully created a positive work culture by implementing these practices.
Signs of a good workplace culture include high employee engagement, low turnover rates, and a positive atmosphere. Employees feel valued and appreciated, and there’s a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. Open communication, transparency, and fairness are evident in company policies and practices. Employees are encouraged to grow and develop, and their achievements are recognised and celebrated. A real-life example of this can be seen at the software company, Adobe, which has consistently been rated as one of the best places to work due to its positive workplace culture.
Even when giving feedback, we can do it in such a way that people respond positively. Create your workplace culture of openness using the following practices:
A smile is a simple yet powerful tool for creating a positive workplace culture. It’s not just about curving your lips upwards, but about conveying genuine warmth and friendliness. A sincere smile can break down barriers, foster a sense of camaraderie, and make the workplace a more pleasant place to be.
Showing interest in your employee’s lives outside of work can make a significant difference. It demonstrates that you value them as individuals, not just as workers. By understanding their personal circumstances, you can provide better support and foster stronger relationships.
When giving feedback, it’s crucial to balance criticism with praise. The word ‘but’ can negate any positive comments that precede it. Instead, use ‘and’ to constructively link positive feedback with areas for improvement. This approach encourages growth without undermining confidence.
Mistakes are inevitable, but they also provide valuable learning opportunities. By creating a culture that views mistakes as chances for growth rather than failures, you can foster resilience and encourage continuous improvement.
Encourage employees to share their thoughts and ideas on how to improve processes and outcomes. This not only taps into the collective wisdom of the team but also makes employees feel valued and heard.
When addressing problematic behaviours, it’s essential to focus on the action, not the person. This approach reinforces the idea that while the behaviour may be unacceptable, the individual is still valued and respected.
Stories can be powerful tools for conveying the reasons behind decisions or changes. They can make abstract concepts more relatable and foster a deeper understanding of the company’s values and goals.
Encourage employees to see challenges as opportunities and to view situations from different perspectives. This can foster a growth mindset, enhance problem-solving skills, and promote resilience.
As a leader, your attitude and energy can significantly influence the workplace atmosphere. By maintaining a positive outlook, you can inspire your team to do the same, creating a more upbeat and productive environment.
Recognising achievements publicly can boost morale and motivation. However, when it comes to feedback on areas for improvement, it’s best to do this privately to avoid embarrassment and maintain dignity.
Don’t wait for the ‘right moment’ to give feedback. Immediate feedback is more relevant and impactful, allowing for quick adjustments and learning.
When giving feedback, be clear and direct. Avoiding the issue or sugar-coating feedback can lead to confusion and missed opportunities for improvement.
Promote an environment of ongoing communication. Regular discussions can break down barriers, foster understanding, and build stronger connections within the team.
Never underestimate the power of a simple ‘thank you’. Regular expressions of gratitude can boost morale, foster a sense of appreciation, and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
By using these tips, you can start to create a workplace culture that feels good. A culture that is full of open, receptive energy.
Kathy Bourque is a Leadership Development Expert for women in business who crave operating from a place of clarity and confidence.
Through her down-to-earth mentorship programs, workshops and keynote speeches, she’s here to show you how to create a workplace of open connectedness where the fires put themselves out. Her emphasis on mindset and mindfulness is revolutionary in the business world.
Transform your leadership style and declare how you want to show up at www.kathybourque.com.