How Much Does Creating A Great Culture Cost?
When I talk with people about their organization’s culture, there’s usually a point in the conversation that goes something like this:
“…of course I would like to have a great culture at (insert organization name here) so — bottom line — what’s it going to cost me?”
That’s a great question and it has a good news answer — a great culture doesn’t cost anything. Actually, if you think a great culture can be purchased — through bonuses, events, giveaways, parties, etc., you will find out that there is negative relationship to this type of behavior… the more you try to “purchase” culture, the greater the distance your culture will move in the wrong direction.
Most people are puzzled by this fact. Isn’t it true that if you ask your people what the company could do to improve the culture, they will answer with “What about a company Holiday Party?” or “Couldn’t we have pizza brought in once a month?” If that’s what your staff is saying they want, why won’t it work to improve your culture?
To answer this question, it’s important to understand that any organization’s culture is actually something that was formed over time as people have observed — in the moment — how “things work around here”. Consider this (rather…
