Five Keys to Building a Strong Culture
(Download a PPT for presenting the Key Concepts)
1. Value What Is Right
We can outwardly conform to a standard for fear of consequences or to secure personal advantage, but a person of character consistently does what is right regardless of physical threat or promised benefit. This commitment sets an example for others, demonstrating how they too can reach their full potential.
2. Let Your Walk Talk
Demonstrate true character by taking responsibility for daily decisions and holding yourself accountable when you fail. Your job may seem insignificant, but the patterns you establish in little things will determine how you face bigger challenges. Those around you measure your commitment to good character by observing the consistency of your actions and attitudes. You can effectively encourage in others only what you endeavor to demonstrate yourself.
3. Be a Team Player
Every person has essential worth, generally feeling most valued in the context of relationships. Thus, you can positively influence others by valuing their perspectives and abilities as you relate to them each day. This approach does not necessarily mean team members will always agree, but it does reflect a common commitment to do what is right, rather than merely what one wants. You cannot truly value others while asserting your own rights.
4. Take Action
We can all talk about impacting others for good, but talk will not provide change. Take action! Use your influence to improve the culture of your surroundings. Take time to think through each part of your life and consider what you can do to make a difference. There are probably things you can do today, things you can do over time, and things you will need to get approval for prior to beginning. Whatever the case, do not put off positive changes.
5. Persist Patiently
As you develop your character, the cultural results may not be apparent immediately. Give other people time to work through situations and adopt ideas themselves. Even when others disappoint you, purpose to remain faithful to your responsibilities.
Whatever setbacks you face, your active commitment to do right provides the perspective you need to deal with others’ offenses and learn from your own mistakes, responding constructively to each situation you encounter.
Culture Application Discussion Questions
Break into small groups and allow each group to discuss one of the questions below before sharing their answers and personal applications with everyone else.
- What things should you value the most in your organization? Why?
- How has your example of good or bad character affected your coworkers?
- How does your ability to be a “team player” impact your effectiveness on the job?
- What can you do to improve your organizationís culture?
- Have you ever patiently let changes take place? What was the result?