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HOME About News and updates The benefits of creating a culture of care

The benefits of
creating a culture
of care

On average, we spend about one third of our lives at work.

That’s a significant amount of time, so the way we feel while we’re there has a significant impact on our overall wellbeing — not just when we’re at work.

It’s proven that happier people are more productive — with research showing businesses with positive workplace cultures have a higher average return.

In fact, companies with strong cultures are reported to have seen a four-times increase in revenue growth.

Conversely, employees being impacted negatively may be less motivated and less productive.

As a leader, you need to be aware of your employees’ emotional state, to recognize when someone needs help, and to know how to offer advice and assistance.

It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day business at hand, especially when it’s busy, but the importance of maintaining a healthy, caring work culture needs to be prioritised.

In their workplace, people need to feel a meaningful sense of belonging and that they’re appreciated and cared for.

Their behaviour at work is shaped in part, due to the collective values and beliefs of your organisation — so it’s up to you and others in senior management, to ensure workers are feeling positive, with the confidence and ability to seek support if they need it .

What are the main challenges for building a culture of care?

There are many contributing factors to be aware of, some of the key ones are:

  • not having the resources or support when needed
  • not providing a healthy work-life balance
  • lack of proper mental health policies
  • instances of harassment or bullying
  • staff not fully engaging
  • too prominent levels of stress

Making sure your workplace is positive and caring

It starts with trust.

People need to feel like they can speak up without fear of retribution.

They need to have the assurance that even if their opinions differ from those higher-up, they’ll be listened to respectfully.

Show your people they matter

If your employees feel like they’re part of a supportive team, so they can share ideas and contribute freely, this leads to better personal connections and a sense of belonging.

Offer flexibility and autonomy

The notion that people have to be in the workplace to be productive is outdated and has been disproven.

Allowing people the autonomy and responsibility to work from home in some capacity makes a vast difference to their attitudes towards work.

When employees are empowered to find their own solutions, and comfortable to reach out for advice, they’re more stimulated and engaged.

Five ways to create a culture of care

Culture doesn’t just happen by itself, it’s something that needs to be discussed, thought about, planned and actively followed up on by the organisation’s leaders.

Here are five tips to help improve culture at your workplace.

1. Knowing your team

Getting to know your employees, taking time to listen to them and understand their perspectives is critical.

Ask for their opinions, make sure they feel included.

2. Choosing the right talent

When hiring, ensure you’re getting people who will actively engage with, and believe in, the culture you’re wanting to build.

3. Offering professional development

Showing that you’re serious about culture is easier when you practice what you preach.

Professional development is one way for employees to feel more valued.

Showing interest in their future and helping them towards their goals will go a long way to improving culture.

4. Seeking referrals

It’s easier to find like-minded people by asking your team for recommendations, as they probably know more people with a similar mindset to themselves.

5. Focusing on the wins

Regular recognition for a job well done is a great way to keep people feeling motivated and appreciated.

Celebrating birthdays and anniversaries is important too.

Building a culture of care is a win-win

When your employees enjoy coming to work and are motivated to excel in their roles the flow-on effect to your bottom-line is obvious. Plus, of course, it makes for a more enjoyable workplace experience.

And considering how much time we spend at work, that’s surely a worthwhile pursuit.

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