“Return to office” is a hot topic.
There are certainly benefits and challenges to both in-office and remote work scenarios. One question that keeps popping is whether and how it’s possible to cultivate a strong company culture in a remote work environment.
The answer is YES! Culture can be developed and made tangible regardless of where people work.
Here are a few examples of how to build culture and sustain a strong culture, whether people are remote, hybrid or in the office.
Building a Culture of Accountability
- Set Goals: Encourage managers to have regular one on one conversations with their team members to set clear goals, track progress and hold people accountable to achieving results.
- Ensure Responsibility: Align performance management processes with the commitments and expectations set for employees, managers and leaders.
- Align Values: Cascade company goals and values to teams and individuals, showing people their work matters and how they contribute to the success of their team and the company.
- Address Missteps: Own up to mistakes and focus on opportunities to improve and grow.
- Train Managers: Provide managers with training to deliver meaningful, actionable feedback.
Building a Positive Culture
- Celebrate Wins: Use internal communications and recognition programs to celebrate both small and big wins.
- Normalize Positive Feedback: Encourage leaders to consistently model giving positive.
- Assume Positive Intent: When someone slips up, trade judgement for understanding, even empathy.
Building a Culture of Transparency
- Share Information: Encourage top executives to be open as possible about their strategic objectives, priorities, challenges, and what is happening with the industry and competitors.
- Welcome New Hires: Introduce new employees via company-wide communications to build connection and belonging from day one.
- Smash Silos: Foster collaboration and understanding by keeping teams informed about what other departments are working on.
- Provide Clarity: Make roles, responsibilities, and expectations clear to reduce confusion, especially during and after change.
