How do I change workplace culture?

How can I transform workplace culture?

If this article has caught your attention, you might be among the few who truly grasp the essence of team culture. You could also relate to my past struggles with this concept, often feeling puzzled and uncertain about what "cultural" truly means.

We all recognize the signs of both healthy and unhealthy team dynamics, and we can certainly describe the actions that contribute positively or negatively to our work environment. So why is it challenging for leaders and teams to define their culture or even recognize when it is thriving? I’ve explored numerous resources, from dictionaries to Forbes articles, searching for clarity. Businesses across Sydney and Melbourne are eager to enhance their cultures, yet many feel uncertain about where to start. The good news is that the answers are out there, and together, we can foster a vibrant and engaging workplace culture! Let’s dive in and explore the possibilities.

What is culture? 

Culture is an exciting and dynamic concept that shapes each workplace uniquely, and the best part? You have the power to influence it! Rather than getting bogged down by complex definitions, let’s focus on what really matters: communication. This is the foundation of culture and everything else—motivation, respect, feedback, critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and conflict resolution—flows from it. By fostering open dialogue, we can create a vibrant culture that thrives on collaboration and mutual understanding. So, who brings this culture to life in the workplace? It’s all of us, working together to shape an environment where everyone can flourish!

It All Begins With You

No matter where you are in the organizational hierarchy—whether in a leadership role or starting out—this message is for you! True transformation occurs when initiatives come from the bottom up, creating a dynamic culture from every corner of the business. Too often, discussions about company culture focus solely on top-down directives. While leadership may champion values like ‘innovation’ and ‘acceptance’ in mission statements, the reality can sometimes fall short.

I’ve witnessed firsthand in a Sydney-based work environment how well-meaning guidelines and meetings meant to foster collaboration inadvertently led to confusion and frustration. Despite having a team of over 100 highly skilled and enthusiastic individuals, the atmosphere became one of anxiety rather than empowerment. Many felt pressured to be constantly busy, which often translated into unnecessary stress rather than genuine achievement. 

Leadership truly wants the best for the team, yet without open lines for feedback, negative behaviors can become ingrained in the culture. This lack of communication can lead to disengagement, high turnover, and a detrimental impact on our clients and customers. 

The essence of a healthy workplace culture starts with the behaviors and attitudes we choose to embrace. Let's champion a culture where every voice matters, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive! It’s not just about leadership; it’s about all of us working together to create a supportive and positive workplace. 

Embracing Acceptable Behaviors

The standards we let slide are the ones we ultimately accept.

This phrase may seem familiar, but its relevance is stronger now than ever! As someone who has raised children, enforced laws, led teams, taught students, and recently embarked on the adventure of training a puppy, I can assure you that allowing even one day of misbehavior can lead to habits that become deeply ingrained. Just like with that playful puppy, our lives are filled with opportunities to set clear expectations, whether at home, in our communities, or in the workplace.

While each of these settings poses its unique challenges, we all have the capacity to assert ourselves. If we can lower our voices and firmly say “No” to a spirited German Shepherd, why not do the same when faced with inappropriate behavior at work? It’s essential to remember that both situations require us to uphold standards we believe in.

You have a stake in all your environments—your personal space, your social circles, and your workplace. You own your role and contributions, and your voice matters. Just because you collaborate with others doesn’t diminish your ownership; it enhances it! Your performance is vital to the success of your company, and a positive atmosphere fosters growth. 

Let’s not underestimate the impact of our actions. Each decision to speak up against wrongdoing strengthens the community we are part of and safeguards our workspaces. 

Remember, all it takes for negativity to flourish is for good people to remain silent. Let's choose to promote the standards we want to see and inspire those around us to do the same! Together, we can create a brighter, more positive environment for everyone.

How does this journey begin?

It begins with a commitment to clear communication. Simple gestures like eye rolls or sighs can easily be misunderstood among colleagues, as we often lack the deep connections we have with family. It's important to remember that not everyone may interpret non-verbal cues the same way. Colleagues might miss nuances like sarcasm or humor during tough conversations. We never truly know the backgrounds and experiences of those around us, which means we must express ourselves clearly and openly.

Transitioning from childhood to adulthood is a complex process, often misunderstood by our society. We're often conditioned to remain quiet and not to stir the pot, urged to handle concerns in private. Unfortunately, this rarely leads to resolution. In vibrant multicultural cities like Sydney and Melbourne, our teenage years are crucial for developing the skills needed to voice our opinions, yet they can sometimes be misinterpreted as rebellion rather than a healthy exploration of adulthood. This tendency to shy away from difficult conversations can persist into adulthood, where many feel pressured to comply rather than assert themselves. Often, we cope with frustration by burying it, allowing it to eventually transform into anger.

When we choose silence in group settings, we inadvertently give permission to certain behaviors to continue. It’s like leaving a puppy unchecked—no one steps in to say “No.” This can foster a cycle where those engaging in inappropriate actions feel rewarded and may repeat them. Over time, our self-doubt can convince us that the situation is hopeless, and we question our worth. Having worked with individuals who have committed serious offenses, I've witnessed the damaging power of such questions as “Why didn’t you say something the first time?” But here's the good news: we can change the narrative starting today, regardless of the past.

Embrace open dialogue, take charge of your voice, and foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to express their concerns. Together, we can build a more respectful and understanding workplace. Let’s nurture a culture where communication flourishes and everyone thrives!

What’s the first step to transforming our culture?

Let’s start with communication—an essential foundation for success! You've already shown incredible aptitude when it comes to listening; by embracing feedback and directives, you’ve proven that you’re attentive and open-minded. Now, it’s time to find and share your voice!

In today’s world, electronic communication has dramatically changed how we interact verbally and in person. Australia is leading the charge in exploring innovative communication methods at an unprecedented pace. For example, schools in Sydney are navigating the complexities of mobile technology, which can create confusion and misunderstandings. This turmoil often leads to missing important subtleties, which can have serious consequences. 

We must recognize that we all approach communication differently—many of us lack training or confidence in various communication styles. Did you know that unclear emails cost us around 1.5 workdays each year just to clarify miscommunications? For small and medium enterprises, the financial impact of verbal miscommunication can reach over $6,000 per employee each year. This doesn’t even include the hidden toll it can take on our mental and physical well-being. It’s crucial that we learn to clarify and express our messages more effectively, especially since Australia is home to a diverse population, including a significant number of individuals from non-English-speaking backgrounds—not just in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, but increasingly in regional areas as well.

Reflecting on the powerful film “Wall Street,” we met the notorious Gordon Gecko, a symbol of corporate greed and the belief that the end justifies the means. However, let’s challenge that notion! In my experience, I witnessed a moment that showcased the potential for positive change. A Sydney police officer bravely addressed inappropriate behavior from a supervisor, standing firm by saying, “No, that’s not acceptable.” This act highlighted the importance of establishing a respectful workplace culture. 

If there had been genuine concerns about performance, there were far more constructive ways to express them that would have fostered guidance and development. Imagine if Gecko had invested in better training rather than cycling through employees—today’s hiring processes can cost 50-150% of a hired employee’s salary just to bring someone new onboard!

We’ve become accustomed to quick, direct, and impersonal communication. The challenges brought on by COVID-19 and remote work heightened this trend, especially among younger individuals. While sometimes, straightforward directives are necessary, it’s vital that they be clear and lack ambiguity. Face-to-face interactions bring body language and tone into play, something that written communication often struggles to convey—no matter how many emojis we use! 

As we rely more on technology, we often sacrifice the richness of conversation. Many people are opting out of phone calls altogether, choosing to text instead. They claim they’re “talking,” but the truth is that meaningful dialogue often gets lost in translation between screens. If our conversations have shifted to primarily texting, it becomes a challenge to engage in true conversation with skill and expertise.

Let’s embrace this opportunity to foster better communication! By cultivating a culture of clarity and understanding, we can connect more authentically, bridge gaps, and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Communication is not just about conveying messages; it’s about building relationships, nurturing trust, and empowering one another. Together, we can transform our culture into one of open dialogue and collaboration! Exciting times are ahead—let’s make them happen!

Use It or Lose It: Embrace the Power of Your Voice!

Let’s embark on an exciting journey of self-expression together! The first step is to start small and practice finding your voice. You may not feel like you’re ready to challenge major figures like Grace Tame did, but remember, every impactful conversation starts somewhere. Shift away from relying solely on emails and texts—let’s get back to face-to-face communication! Pop into neighboring offices, whether it’s administration, sales, or support, and engage in direct conversations. As you reconnect with your voice, you’ll find that this practice will pave the way for tackling more challenging discussions with confidence.

As you elevate your communication skills, consider enlisting a support person to join you. In my experience, especially while interviewing witnesses and team members, having someone by your side creates a positive and respectful environment. I’ve walked in both pairs of shoes—as the interviewer and the interviewee—and I’ve found that a support person not only holds both parties accountable but also spreads a sense of calm. Their presence can reassure you, especially when you’re navigating conversations with individuals who may seem more confident or assertive. Knowing that a colleague has your back allows you to address tough topics without feeling singled out. 

Moreover, when I entered leadership roles, I welcomed the support of trusted individuals. Their presence encouraged fairness and genuine assistance for my team, while also keeping me anchored in professionalism. Let’s face it: not every difficult interaction comes from malice; often, it’s simply that certain behaviors haven’t been addressed. 

It’s surprising to see how many people in various industries choose to go it alone, fearing judgment or the strain of pressure. Remember, having a support person can be a major confidence booster! They can help keep track of essential details that might slip your mind during a crucial discussion. In the medical field, for instance, it’s recommended to bring someone along for specialist consultations to better absorb the information when emotions run high. Let’s not underestimate the power dynamics in closed-door meetings! Having someone there can help level the playing field.

If finding a support person seems out of reach, don’t worry! You can still prepare effectively. Write down what you want to communicate and practice reading it out loud. Even seasoned Keynote Speakers rely on palm cards to keep their thoughts organized when the adrenaline kicks in—this simple tool helps them stay focused. You’re no different! Your conversation is just as important, and preparing for it can be incredibly empowering. 

Remember, the significance of your discussion is what brought you to this moment. Treat it seriously, and never hesitate to express yourself! Embracing your voice can lead to meaningful changes, not just for you, but for those around you. So, let’s unlock the potential of our voices and make remarkable connections together!

What if it backfires?

It’s completely natural to feel some apprehension. The potential consequences can seem daunting, but let’s take a moment to reflect on who truly bears those consequences. Power dynamics often lead us to believe that standing up for ourselves could be detrimental. However, while I acknowledge your experiences, I invite you to consider two important questions.

First, is your apprehension based on your own experiences or simply anecdotal? Second, if you have faced challenges, how well do you understand your rights?

Psychological safety is a vital concept that guarantees your right to have a voice at work. It ensures that you are heard, respected, and treated fairly, without bias or fear of repercussions. This right is rooted in Safe Work NSW guidelines.

According to the Code of Practice on Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work by SafeWork NSW, we have tools at our disposal to address workplace concerns, and this legislation is relatively new, meaning it’s still being shaped and tested in practice. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the boundaries of these rights and set new precedents. One particularly powerful section of this Act addresses uncertainties around roles and work expectations—including the frequent changes and lack of clarity that so many of us face. 

It’s likely that you resonate with multiple points outlined in this section, as these issues are widespread. Instead of approaching the situation with a defeatist mindset, let’s embrace a proactive attitude! The Act and accompanying Code of Practice are on your side, encouraging open communication. Take the time to print it out! Highlight the important sections, take notes, and gather any supportive emails or correspondence. This will transform your concerns into tangible evidence, turning the narrative to empower you.

Often, we feel like it's our word against someone else's. But with this knowledge in hand, we can shift the balance in our favor. Think of it as “Exhibit A,” which can significantly bolster your confidence. When you step into a conversation—whether accompanied by a colleague, a friend, or a support person like a legal representative or union delegate—you will have the weight of the law behind you. This moves us toward a situation where neither side leaves as a loser. 

When I mentioned that the potential consequences could seem dire, remember that those consequences only grow if issues remain unresolved. Clear communication leads to wins for everyone involved. You’ll gain confidence and improve both your mental and physical health, while the individual or workplace you have concerns with will benefit too. By addressing grievances, we can repair relationships and enhance practices, preventing what could lead to more complicated legal and financial issues down the line.

Let’s champion a culture of openness and embrace the opportunity for growth—together, we can create a positive, transparent work environment for all!

What is my culture now?

Great news! The workplace is evolving, and you are at the heart of this transformation. You have taken the initiative to define how you want to be treated, and that’s a powerful decision. When you act with integrity, you pave the way for a cultural shift—one that, while it may be deeply rooted, is absolutely possible. Your bravery will inspire your colleagues to join in. With high staff turnover and an emphasis on professional development in today’s competitive job market, your voice matters more than ever. This is a fantastic opportunity to cultivate a workplace culture that you can genuinely take pride in. Together, let’s create an environment where everyone thrives!