There are lots of different meanings, definitions and perspectives on what makes up a happy culture, our belief is it must be driven from within.
It’s the environment a company creates which is affected by lots of things, like leadership, values, traditions, beliefs, interactions, behaviours and attitudes. In other words, it’s all the things that set the overall ‘feel’ of the company. It’s how people feel, think and behave at work.
If your culture is not jointly recognised, or accepted, it can be much harder to define and ingrain. Contrary to popular belief, culture isn’t just determined by Friday drinks, team yoga mornings, pizza or ping pong tables – (which are all great by the way) they just won’t cut it if you don’t have the culture-essentials right. Things like positive leaders, a clear purpose, a diverse and inclusive team, or flexible working – the list goes on. All of these, and much more, will have more positive impact on people’s lives inside and outside of work.
The Impact of Happy
Numerous research and studies tell us that a positive work culture increases employee engagement. Happy people are more productive, accountable, optimistic and creative.
Naturally, this will also inspire a joint belief system across the company, enhancing commitment and performance whilst decreasing the risk of burnout.
Supporting this, Gallup’s State of the Global workplace report shows there’s a ‘21% higher profitability for engaged teams’ as well as an average of 41% lower absenteeism and 17% higher productivity; which is really saying something.
On the flipside, the effects of having a negative culture can be catastrophic, from low interest and input to a stressed-out and frustrated workforce. There’s also little keeping people from leaving; the weight on getting culture right is huge.
Don’t let that be your company’s culture story, because when happiness works, the possibilities are endless.
HappyHQ can help you design and develop a workplace culture strategy that’s tailored for your company and its teams.
To find out more, visit happyhq.co.uk
