CREATING A POSITIVE WORKPLACE CULTURE

Creating a positive work culture is important for the functioning of every business, it encourages good work ethic, productivity and efficiency. Workplace culture can be understood or referred to as phenomenon that integrates the beliefs and attitudes of the people working in a business with the principles and values of that company. With the sole aim of establishing a ‘culture’ in the company. Workplace culture plays a critical role in the structuring of a business in that;

• It encourages good communication between an employer and an employee by encouraging a healthy relationship.

• It helps with transparency and trust in the employment relationship and work processes where employees are able or are free to be themselves and given enough chance to produce work that reflects who and what they are and what the company stands for.

• It creates a platform for inclusivity and diversity, where all types and kinds of people are accepted in the work processes and decision-making processes of every business.

• Lastly, it encourages teamwork.

Workplace culture defines every business, that is the mission and the vision of that business. It sets a tone for both the external and the internal parts of the company, those being the employees and employers (internal) and customers and stakeholders (external). Without this element, it is safe to say a business has no identity. How a company can create workplace culture is by, encouraging a harmonious relationship between managers and subordinates, building a company identity, that achieved through the mission, vision and objective of the business. Setting goals and meeting those goals. The South African Constitution and labour legislature has already established a foundation for workplace culture. That is through the Employment Equity Act and the Labour Relations Act, where employees that were previously disadvantaged are now given an equal opportunity to work and get paid, transgender employees are given the freedom to express themselves, that encouraging inclusivity and diversity. The promotion of collective bargaining and negotiating. These allowing employees the freedom of speech and rights to being included in the decision-making process of the business. And lastly, the law setting a minimum standard for treatment for employees through policies such as National Minimum Wage, contracts, the right to sick leave and maternity leave and the right to standardised working hours and overtime. These set a foundation for businesses to have cultured environments and to provide a workplace that promotes good working standards and a positive and conducive work environment.

Tips on how managers can create a good workplace culture:

1. Through team building: Culture is made of a strong work relationship between the employers and the employees

2. Open communication: Encourage open door policies between you and your employees

3. Incentivise employees: Reward good work through promotions and bonuses

4. Inclusivity and diversity: Create an environment that accommodates everyone regardless of race, gender and age.

Good workplace culture results in growth, productivity and efficiency, without which a business may suffer. Companies rely on efficiency and productivity to function, so fostering a conducive work environment is important for every company.