How To Make Employees Act On Company Culture?

Company culture serves as a guiding force for actions and decisions among employees. Phrases like “Customer first,” “creating a good working environment,” and “taking responsibility for one’s actions” are examples of common company culture values. However, in daily operations, these can often remain superficial. How can companies ensure that all employees not only understand but also embody the company culture?

The initial step is to move beyond merely displaying company culture slogans on posters to integrating them into everyday interactions. Particularly, top-level management, such as C-level executives, must consistently articulate the company culture. In some Japanese companies, employees recite company values every morning, but this can sometimes feel like a directive from above. When leaders repeatedly vocalize company culture, it demonstrates its importance, fostering a trickle-down effect within the organization.

People tend to value spoken words more than written ones; clear, concise, and repetitive verbal reinforcement leaves a lasting impression. Think back to school: you may recall a teacher’s frequent phrase more easily than textbook content. Verbal repetition enhances memory and underscores importance.

However, words alone are not enough; action speaks louder than words. Mere lip service achieves nothing.

Timing matters too. While reinforcing company culture is essential, it shouldn’t replace basic greetings. In larger organizations, decisions made at the top may seem distant to lower-level or part-time employees who primarily work for personal gain. Aligning company culture with individual appraisals can bridge this gap, prompting a review of existing appraisal systems.

Employees perform best when they understand their goals and appraisal criteria. If validation depends solely on subjective impressions, effort may be sporadic. Integrating company culture into appraisals clarifies expectations across all levels.

Lastly, embodying company culture means making decisions that reflect these values. When employees seek guidance, remind them of the company culture and empower them to decide accordingly. For instance, if your company prioritizes exceptional customer service, challenge employees to exceed expectations. Encouraging individuals to propose solutions fosters a culture of proactive decision-making aligned with company values.

Fostering awareness and action around company culture requires consistent verbal reinforcement from leadership, integration into appraisal systems, and alignment with everyday decisions. This approach cultivates a workforce that not only understands but also embodies the company’s ethos.