"Exploring the Impact of Workplace Culture vs. Community: Which is the Key to Employee Satisfaction?"

Can it be both in the workplace, and what is the difference?

We see and hear the words ‘culture’ and ‘community’ frequently in the workplace or on job advertisements. Have we actually thought what they mean?

Culture

Technically work culture is defined by people together in the workplace with shared values, beliefs, goals and behaviours within the company.

The culture presents a positive work place, that fosters productivity, collaboration and increases employee satisfaction. Mutual respect with communication styles, how tasks are performed and / or approached lead to the company's overall success.

Community

Whilst similar to culture, community has a slightly alternate meaning, with the main difference being emotions or feeling connected. Its a sense of belonging, a feeling of connection and support, a camaraderie / friendship connection and being part of something larger than just the job or tasks at hand.

In addition, both involve diversity and complexity, and it is important to acknowledge and be mindful of a few key points.

The benefits of a work culture and community

 If we make the effort within our work culture and community, we experience happiness and joy within. Lets explore the benefits

• Higher engagement

• Increased advocacy and loyalty

• Higher retention

• Less sick leave

• Increased creativity

• Improved health of all employees

• Builds trust

Which leads to:

• Happy bosses

• Higher revenue

• Impressed clients / more and new business

• Internal promotions

Fun!! Covers everything and more. It brings out our genuine nature that is authentic and creates wonderful memories. Don’t forget to have fun!!

How to have fun?

When we are caught in our day to day rut, and it feels like groundhog day, we can forget how to have fun. This can mean different things for people. To keep it fair, inclusive and creative, we have put a list together for you to get some ideas. Keeping in mind your policies and procedures in the workplace may not support some ideas.

• Casual Fridays!

This is more and more popular post covid, with companies even making themed Fridays. Employees can balance their personal style with professionalism. Like dressing in the half suit (board shorts with business shirt), or track pants with a blouse which all make for a good laugh and conversation.

• Finish early Fridays

Companies are implementing a finish early Fridays structure for their employees to either have a cold beverage and snacks or to spend a couple of extra hours with their loved ones after a hard working week. Many know the term ‘TGIF’ and feel excited about finishing early.

• Celebrating Milestones

Acknowledging achievements is a fantastic way to include all employees. It can boost their spirits, strengthens team morale and creates a united front of the company. Sharing successes can be personal or professional including an engagement or weeding, a birthday, a birth, a won tender, exceeded results, a new project added to improve efficiency, new employees, farewelling employees and more.

Cake, snacks, certificates and drinks also add a nice touch!

• Quarterly and annual events

At the end of the day, business is business! If we are not responsible directly, there is someone responsible for the company’s financials. Many teams ensure they work smart to meet their KPIs and targets to celebrate at their quarterly or annual events. It also brings the team together to understand where the business is at.

And who doesn't love a good Christmas party?!

• Have a FUN room or section within the office

Maintaining enthusiasm and energy in the workplace does not need to always come from the top. By implementing items such as table tennis, air hockey, board games, a couch and TV, a gaming console, a picnic table, a yoga space, board games, a basketball hoop or a volley ball net can make a huge difference. Send out a survey to your team to gain opinions on what they prefer.

• Team sports

There are many businesses that compete against each other in local areas. This could be a local soccer, netball, basketball, chess, or gaming clubs. Your employees connect with the wider community, which can add favorably later on.

Final thoughts...

Do not assume!

Listen and engage! You may just learn something.

Accept that people have different values, identities, experiences, pasts and come from different heritage cultures. They may be hesitant to talk about for fear or judgement, privacy or something else.

It is ok to ask questions that are genuine and authentic to improve the relationship, but it is not ok to ask or probe for answers to gain ammunition to use in a place of judgement or behviours that could lead to bullying.

Effort

For a great culture and community within the workplace, it takes effort for ALL parties.

Effort includes, but is not limited to the basics. Respect, acceptance, awareness, action (do what you say), kindness and inclusiveness. By recognizing and being accountable and responsible for our own words and actions, we can have a more happy, enjoyable experience at work.