It is a Culture Thing!
When I envisioned owning my own business, I imagined walking in the door and smiling. And I was lucky, for the 19 years, I owned Roundpeg, that was how I felt, every day.
I was proud of the work we did, but at our core it was the people and the culture that made the experience special. The culture at the 'Peg, made work enjoyable and it was a a magnet for great employees and loyal clients.
Looking to build a vibrant culture for your company? Here are some tips to help you get started.
Start with Your Core Values
Your culture begins with your core values. These aren’t just feel-good phrases slapped on a wall; they’re the foundation of how you do business. Think of them as your company’s North Star, guiding decisions and shaping how the world sees you. Our values included curiosity, creativity, collaboration and positive energy.
We lived the values. They weren't buried in a handbook or only mentioned during annual reviews. They were on the wall, guiding our hiring process.
Infuse Values into Onboarding and Feedback
Once new hires are on board, your onboarding process is your chance to immerse them in your culture. Go beyond the paperwork and day-to-day logistics. With each new employee, I took the time to explain what our company values meant and why they mattered.
And don’t stop there. Make those values a regular part of your feedback and coaching conversations. When you recognize someone’s efforts or provide constructive criticism, tie it back to the principles that define your business.
Keep Communication Open
As your company grows it is sometimes challenging to keep the same warm, intimate connection that built your culture, so you have to work a little harder. Make sure everyone knows their voices matter. Whether it’s regular one-on-ones, team meetings, or just an open-door policy, creating spaces where employees can share ideas and concerns fosters trust and belonging.
Let Your Values Shine in Your Marketing
Your company culture isn’t just internal. It should be visible to the world, especially in your marketing. When your values are front and center, you’ll attract clients who connect with them—and who are more likely to become long-term partners. Plus, it gives potential employees a glimpse of what it’s like to work with you.
Listen, Learn, and Adapt
Culture isn’t static—it evolves. To keep yours healthy, make it a habit to ask for feedback. Regular discussions give you valuable insights into what’s working and what’s not. Use that feedback to adjust policies or practices as needed. A willingness to adapt shows your team that you’re serious about creating the best environment possible.
It was hard when my team suggested we adjust our values to reflect how we had changed from the days when it was just me. But they were right, and embracing their contributions created loyalty and support for the values from everyone.
Celebrate the Journey
Whether it’s a big win or a small victory, take time to appreciate what you’ve accomplished together. Create traditions or team rituals that foster connection and remind everyone why they’re part of this adventure.