Culture isn’t team lunches and early doors on a Friday. It’s about how your team shows up every single day.
When we talk about company culture, we’re talking about the invisible glue that holds your workplace together. It’s the way people treat each other, the values that guide decisions, and the behaviours that play out …even when no one’s watching (particularly when no one is watching!).
In short, culture is “how we do things around here” …and it’s important: a strong culture is the foundation of a resilient, motivated loyal team and, ultimately, a successful business.
The Ingredients of a Healthy Workplace Culture
A thriving culture doesn’t just happen – it’s built with intention.
So what are the key ingredients exactly?
- Clear vision and values – People want to know what the business stands for and where it’s headed. A clear strategy shapes your structure and informs every people decision. When team members understand how their role contributes to the bigger picture, they’re likely to be more aligned and feel more engaged.
- Leadership example – Leaders set the tone. If you say one thing but do another, culture suffers. Allowing behaviour that clashes with your values – no matter how skilled the individual – is incredibly damaging. People watch what leaders do more than what they say.
- Trust and communication – Open, honest communication builds trust. When people know they can speak up freely and that they’ll be supported (“I’ve got your back, just let me know what you need”), they perform with confidence.
- Recognition and appreciation – Talk to your team. Treat them fairly, acknowledge their efforts, and celebrate contributions. Recognition isn’t just about rewards – it’s about making people feel seen and valued. Even a simple “thank you” can have a big impact.
- Opportunities to grow – Your strongest culture champions are often your most talented people. When you invest in their development, you’re not only more likely to keep them, but you also inspire the rest of the team to lift their game too.
- Work-life balance – being aware of and respecting the need for personal time signals that you see your team as more than just their output.
- Diversity – in thinking, background, style, and perspective – is not only healthy, but also essential for innovation and resilience.
What Does a Healthy Culture Look Like?
You can usually feel it the moment you walk in. In a healthy workplace:
- You’re greeted with a ‘hello’ and a smile in the morning.
- People are engaged and motivated, not just clocking in and out.
- Collaboration feels natural, not forced.
- People feel safe to speak up, put forward their ideas, and challenge constructively.
- There’s energy, purpose, and conversation and yes – a little fun.
If you’ve just bought a business, you’ve got a golden opportunity. Think of it like moving into a new house – the walls are there, but you get to choose the colours, the furniture, and the vibe.
Here’s how to set the tone early:
- Listen first. Spend time with the team, hear what’s working and what’s not.
- Clarify values. Decide what this business will stand for and communicate it clearly.
- Set expectations. Culture forms quickly!
- Lead by example. Every action you take signals what matters most.
If you’ve been running your business for a number of years and things are feeling a little flat. Don’t panic! The energy can be reignited/reinvigorated …
- Do you have a vision and if so, does it still inspire? Maybe it needs a refresh
- Ask for input from the team – the people in your team often have the answers, you just need to ask.
- Celebrate wins, big or small, to spark momentum.
- Invest in growth: through cross-training or stretch opportunities.
- Injecting some spark small get togethers or events or even small changes to your workspace.
Building culture isn’t a point in time project, it’s an ongoing practice. Whether you’re stepping into a new business or breathing fresh energy into an existing one, the key is to keep working at it.
When you get culture right, people feel proud to be part of your business and when your people thrive, so does loyalty, performance, and growth.
If you’re looking to strengthen or refresh your workplace culture, let’s have a chat.
Sometimes an outside perspective is all it takes to spot the gaps and unlock the opportunities. We’d love to help you shape a culture that brings out the best in your team and your business. Reach out to us at hello@hellomonday.co.nz or give us a call on 09 377 5200.