Weird Weekly: Small Steps, Big Impact: Approaching Workplace Culture Change

Navigating workplace culture as a leader can be an overwhelming task. As leaders, we often struggle to implement positive and lasting changes. While there are numerous resources available, they can be complex, expensive, and challenging to implement. However, after much trial and error, I've discovered a method that works for me and my team, and I believe it can help new leaders influence positive change in their current workplace culture.

To start, it's essential to ask your team what they want to see more of at work. Whether it's fostering a more positive atmosphere, enhancing communication, or promoting consistency, understanding their desires is the first step. Equally important is evaluating your team's current behavior. Do they adhere to the rules, or do they find ways to circumvent them? This assessment will provide you with insights into the existing culture.

Next, examine the concept of accountability within your team. Will they support each other and hold themselves accountable? Do they genuinely respect the rules? Additionally, assess the team's overall happiness at work. Are frequent call-offs a problem? Do they consistently arrive on time? These factors contribute to the overall workplace experience.

Conducting surveys is an effective way to gain valuable feedback. Ask your team what they expect from management and whether those expectations are being met. Also, ask about their understanding of what is expected from them as team members.

Collecting all this information establishes a baseline for your culture change efforts. This realistic picture helps you prioritize what matters most for your team's success and the business.

Implementing culture change isn't an exact science, and the key to success lies in team buy-in. It takes time, consistency, and patience to see meaningful results. Expect that new ideas, rules, and programs may not be warmly received at first, but celebrate even the smallest improvements along the way.

Once you've determined your baseline, have a team meeting to discuss expectations from management and each other. Give everyone a chance to express their thoughts, ensuring a constructive and comfortable environment. Recap the results and create a commitment document for the team to sign.

Explain to your team that this commitment document will ensure everyone has the support they need, consistent guidance, and clarity on what is expected at work. Reassure them that their concerns are valued, and they should feel free to approach you to address any issues.

Now, pick one aspect you'd like to change within your team. Outline your message, identify desired behaviors, things to continue doing, and new practices to adopt.

Holding people accountable consistently is crucial. Reward and recognize positive behaviors and attitudes, but also address any issues privately and in real-time. Avoid delay, as addressing concerns promptly increases effectiveness.

What makes this method particularly effective is its focus on simplicity, authenticity, and team engagement. By breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps, new leaders can easily grasp and apply these principles to their specific workplace. Gathering feedback through surveys and open discussions fosters a sense of inclusion and empowers team members to actively contribute to the culture change process.

The commitment document created during the team meeting serves as a tangible reminder of the shared vision and expectations, reinforcing the culture change journey. Transparency plays a pivotal role throughout, as leaders openly communicate both successes and challenges, building trust and encouraging the same level of honesty among team members.

The celebration of even the smallest improvements reinforces a positive environment, motivating team members to actively participate in the transformation. Additionally, the unwavering dedication to holding people accountable and providing real-time feedback ensures consistent progress and reinforces the team's commitment to change.

Throughout this process I encourage you to be "unapologetically weird" as a leader foster an authentic and inclusive atmosphere where team members feel comfortable to be themselves. This emphasis on individuality brings diverse perspectives to the table, enhancing problem-solving and creative collaboration.

The combination of simplicity, authenticity, team engagement, and a celebration of uniqueness makes this method effective in cultivating a positive workplace culture that drives success and fulfillment for both leaders and team members alike.

As we focus on a new topic to enhance our workplace culture, let's not forget the importance of recapping expectations with our team. Starting small and building on previous successes is a powerful approach to ensuring continuous improvement.

Once we have successfully implemented changes related to our initial chosen aspect, it's essential to gather feedback from our team and evaluate the impact of those changes. Celebrate the progress made and recognize the positive behaviors and attitudes that have contributed to our success.

With this momentum, we can introduce a new topic, building upon the foundation we've established. As we progress, don't hesitate to refer back to the commitment document and remind the team of our shared vision. Transparency remains a cornerstone, so openly communicate the purpose and goals of the new topic, encouraging team members to express their thoughts and concerns.

As we navigate the process, remember to be patient and allow time for team buy-in. Embrace creativity, seeking innovative approaches to tackle challenges and reinforce positive behaviors. Celebrate every step forward, no matter how small, and use these successes as building blocks for future endeavors.

By continually recapping and reinforcing our expectations, we ensure that our workplace culture is consistently aligned with our desired vision. With each new topic, we strengthen our team's cohesion, trust, and engagement, making steady progress towards a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their unique strengths.

In this journey to cultivate a positive workplace culture, it's essential to remember that it's not rocket science. While the task might seem daunting at times, we don't need complex formulas or elaborate strategies. Instead, it's about fostering genuine connections, open communication, and embracing the power of collective efforts.

By breaking down the process into simple, actionable steps, we can create meaningful changes. The key is to understand our team's needs, engaging them in open discussions, and working collaboratively towards shared goals.

As leaders, we don't need to be perfect or have all the answers. It's okay to make mistakes and learn from them, as long as we remain committed to progress and continuous improvement. Embracing the "unapologetically weird" mindset allows us to be authentic, genuine, and unafraid to try new approaches.

In the end, it's the small, consistent actions and genuine efforts that create a positive workplace culture. By focusing on simplicity, transparency, creativity, and team engagement, we can build an environment where everyone feels valued, inspired, and motivated to bring their best selves to work each day.

So, let's set aside the notion that this is an insurmountable challenge, and instead, approach it with a positive attitude and a willingness to adapt. It's a journey that requires dedication, empathy, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

I encourage you to try this method of gradual improvement and build upon our achievements as we shape a workplace culture that embodies authenticity, creativity, and inclusivity. Adjust and adapt the strategy to fit the personalities and needs of your individual team members. With a little luck, perseverance, and creativity, you can create an environment where each team member feels empowered to be their best selves, contributing to a thriving and successful organization. As leaders proudly champion your "unapologetically weird" style, celebrate your uniqueness and watch over time, an atmosphere that encourages individuality and collective success grow.

Trying this approach, will help your team to be well-equipped to face the challenges and uncertainties that come with change, build confidence in our ability to continuously improve and create a workplace culture that inspires, motivates, and empowers everyone to achieve their full potential.

Have you had success influencing culture change with your team? Share your experiences, so we can celebrate and grow together! I can wait to hear about all the incredible accomplishments, and creative ways you have implemented change with your team ??