It’s a question I’m often asked, and one that is difficult to respond to, since every organisation is so unique. At its core, an ideal culture supports the organisation’s goals and prioritises the well-being of its people, yet what that looks like in practice can vary significantly.
According to the Barrett Values Centre, highly effective organisations evolve through seven levels of culture. If these levels told a story, it would look something like this:
Imagine a company that is conscious and fair in the way it sets prices and pay. Because it has moved beyond fear driven greed is it now profitable, financially stable and creates a good shareholder return. It also provides safe and comfortable working conditions for its people.
When people walk into the office each day they smile and greet each other warmly. There is a healthy sense of respect and customers feel well looked after.
The organisation invests in high performing systems. It trains it’s people to be excellent at doing their jobs and the staff are proud to tell others who they work for.
This is an organisation that moves forward through innovation and continuous improvement. It has the adaptability and resilience to weather tough times. People feel empowered and have the courage to ask the tough questions, it is OK to make mistakes.
People feel inspired by the vision and values. There are high levels of trust and a deep sense of purpose, fun and team spirit
This is a collaborative working environment for staff, customers, suppliers and the community where people focus on win-win for all concerned. The investment in leadership development means that leaders are making a sustainable difference inside and outside the organisation.
For this group, ethics is not about compliance but truly doing what they believe is right, deep down in their hearts. There is a knowing that by doing their jobs, people are serving society & future generations.
The Barrett Culture Assessment can evaluate your organisation across these levels, identifying your unique culture development journey. If you’re curious about what this journey could look like, please get in touch to discuss a culture assessment for your organisation.
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