Drive Your Career: Corporate Culture

I was a guest speaker on a webinar last week that focused on "Culture and the Remote Team- How to Create and Maintain a Positive Culture". This topic was in response to the organization's interests as many of the individuals, either as leaders or individual contributors, had migrated to a remote environment in response to the Covid crisis.

This had me reflect deeply in preparation. Not only on companies and individuals I know that have done it successfully, but how we have migrated in our own organization. The company I have been with for 23 years went to a remote work environment overnight, and I realized it can be done effectively, with the right team and the right culture.

Culture is driven by vision, values, and the people. With a clear vision and values supported by actions of the right team, there is no question a positive culture can be developed, and maintained, on a team working virtually. Corporate culture, as defined by Investopedia, refers to the "beliefs and behaviors that determine how a company's employees and management interact and handle outside business transactions. Often, corporate culture is implied, not expressly defined, and develops organically over time from the cumulative traits of the people the company hires."

1. It starts with trust. Fortunately, our team at The Mullings Group has a high amount of trust in each other, based on accountability over time and hiring the right people. I trust that each member of our team will do what they say they will do, and I, in return, do the same. This trust must be given to receive it. In validating new hires, inquire and reference regarding work ethic, follow up, and the ability to put ego aside and ask for help in the greater interest of the organization. Trust in putting the organization and team goals first is critical for success.
2. Communication. Setting up clear and consistent communication with your team keeps minds from wandering, and guessing, where expectations stand. With that said, stand guard at ensuring the time together is well spent and your meetings have a goal. Going through the unusual times like these are also a great time to clarify your company's mission and values. Remind the team who we are and why we are here. Clarify the "North Star" you are all working towards together.
3. Culture is built on value. Believing the work we do is valuable, and believing we are valued, are critical components to a positive culture. It is not table tennis and free lunches. In fact, one client company in the Bay Area is troubled by the attrition they are experiencing during this time, especially after all the investment they had done into social events, perks, and other fringe benefits. People are leaving the company because they didn't buy into the overarching mission of the company, hence there is nothing personally invested to lose when they leave. Ensure any new team member is engaged with your mission, market, leadership, and product, as those passionate about the road ahead will be your strongest and most dedicated contributors.
4. Use technology, but use your head. Not everything requires a virtual meeting. Some things are best with a quick call or a text. If you are in a virtual meeting, turn on your camera and participate. If you find you have the dreaded "zoom fatigue" from back to back meetings, reevaluate your schedule. Plan calls in-between, and be mindful of your peak energy times. Instead of sitting in the same place, take a walk and have a conversation. In person meetings can still be done, now we are seeing in office with appropriate safety protocol in place, or parks, etc.
5. One Team. Change the mindset of "having to work remotely" to "having the benefit of working remotely". There is strong data supporting the effectiveness of remote work, citing productivity, retention, and overall employee satisfaction. If you are in an opportunity that allows for this structure, embrace it. ONE team- Those onsite and those remote- Working towards the same goal and contribute in their own way.

Culture is built, and maintained, with the foundation of trust, clear communication, and empowerment of our teammates. Individuals who come together with the same mission will stay together, and work tirelessly, towards goals. Value in the organization, and being valued, are central to employee's commitment. The committed team that weathers dark times together reaps the reward of the work on the other side.