About Workplace Culture

A good workplace culture is an important part of business.

Workplace culture is found in all businesses, however small or large, and is an important concept. A good workplace culture can improve morale, boost productivity and improve the reputation of the company. Alternatively, a poor workplace culture can have damaging effects.

Definition

Workplace culture determines employee morale.

Workplace culture is the atmosphere and environment that a business creates, and dictates the way employees interact, their working practices, and even their happiness. It is the result of the morals and ethics upon which the business is built, and runs throughout the company, from higher management to workers with the least authority.

Benefits

A good workplace culture can improve financial health.

The Sunday Business Post states that "organizations that are committed to developing and maintaining a culture of 'dignity at work', by which people are treated fairly and with respect, will reap the benefits in terms of financial results." If employees feel valued, they will be happier and will therefore be more productive, improving profit margins. Employee loyalty will also be high, as workers opt to remain in their current employment as they enjoy what they do and where they work.

Law

The law protects staff in the workplace.

The Occupational Safety and Health Act 1970 was passed in the U.S. to protect employees from hazards, including those that affect emotional and mental health. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the company to create and nurture a good workplace culture in order to ensure employee happiness and good emotional and mental health, eliminating practices or employees that may wish to sour the culture and cause conflict.

Importance

Good workplace culture can improve business relationships.

A workplace culture defines how employees act, and their perception of the business. This, then, spills over into their conduct with clients, who will be attracted to the company if they can see that employees enjoy working there. A good workplace culture can enhance team spirit and improve employee morale.

Warning

Conflict can arise in a workplace with a poor culture.

A workplace without a defined culture can lead to unsettled employees, resulting in poor morale and lower productivity. A workplace culture will be created with or without the intervention of management, but it may not be desirable to the company, built on foundations of mistrust and reluctance to work. It is therefore important for managers to implement and maintain a healthy workplace culture.

References

• Helium: The Importance of Building a Workplace Culture
• The Sunday Business Post Online: Don't underestimate the importance of workplace culture
• Codelines: What is Workplace Culture and What Does It Mean?