A Shared Language is Crucial in Developing a Thriving Company Culture

In the pursuit of a thriving company culture, the importance of a shared language cannot be overstated. While shared values serve as the bedrock, a shared language acts as the means for transmitting and reinforcing these values within our organizational framework. Without a common understanding of how to express what is essential to the organization, interactions become inconsistent and unpredictable, leading to challenges in communication, collaboration, and overall cultural coherence.

A shared language extends beyond mere words and phrases; it encapsulates the nuances of tone, body language, and the subtle yet powerful elements that convey meaning. This common language is a way of communicating crucial information about the organization’s identity, values, and a code of conduct governing interactions. It forms a cohesive thread that ties us and our staff together, fostering a sense of unity and clarity in the organizational culture.

When there is a lack of a shared language, each interaction risks becoming a confusing experience as people will naturally approach communication differently based on their personalities. This makes it challenging to understand expectations, creating an environment that is uncertain and unreliable. In the absence of a shared language, efforts to establish a thriving company culture become fragmented, hindering our ability to foster collaboration, innovation, and a positive working atmosphere.

As leaders, we are key champions of organizational culture and play a pivotal role in establishing and promoting a shared language. Communication training should be a shared experience for us, our staff, and our managers alike, ensuring that everyone in the organization learns and understands this common language. This shared language is not only integral but indispensable at every level of the organization. And as leaders, our role is to set a consistent and unifying example for our staff and teams.

A shared language is not simply a formality; it is the bridge that connects shared values to everyday practices, ensuring that the culture is lived and not just spoken about or forgotten in a mission statement. Organizations that prioritize the development and reinforcement of a shared language create a foundation for a positive and intentional culture, where communication is clear, expectations are understood, and people can contribute effectively to the shared vision and goals of the organization.

Stephen de Groot is President and CoFounder at Brivia. He is the author of Responsive Leadership (SAGE, 2016) and Getting to Better: A New Model for Elevating Human Potential at Work and in Life(Fall, 2024). To learn more about Stephen, his work and the Brivia approach click HERE.