Culture isn’t something you create and impose on others. Instead, it’s something you cultivate with your people, attracting those who naturally belong.
So, how do you cultivate a thriving culture? Here are the seven key elements:
1. Shared Purpose
Why does your company exist? What unique belief drives it?
Money fuels the business, but purpose defines the direction.
2. Principles
Start with a set of 3–5 core values and outline the key behaviors that embody them.
For example, instead of stating “Inclusion,” encourage specific actions like “giving quieter voices space to speak.”
3. Systems
Review your processes and technology. If they don’t support your principles, change them.
Want a culture that embraces failure? Implement rewards for taking calculated risks, even if they don’t succeed.
4. Stories
Capture and share real examples of people living the company’s principles.
A story might be: “Jack noticed his team struggling, so he stayed late to help them finish a critical task.”
