Assignment : 8 Organizational culture
Q.1 Define Organizational Culture and Its Importance
Organizational culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, norms, and practices that guide
the behavior of people within an organization. It represents the personality of the organization
and influences how employees interact with each other and with external stakeholders.
Culture can be seen in how decisions are made, how people are rewarded, how problems are
solved, and how customers are treated. It develops over time and is influenced by leadership,
organizational history, and the environment.
Importance of Organizational Culture:
It gives employees a sense of identity and belonging.
Helps create a strong brand image for customers and partners.
Encourages consistent behavior and decision-making aligned with the company’s
goals.
Boosts employee morale, motivation, and job satisfaction.
Attracts and retains talent by creating a positive and engaging work environment.
Promotes teamwork, trust, and open communication.
Q.2 Attributes of Culture
Organizational culture can be understood through various key attributes:
1. Values: These are the core principles and standards that guide behavior in the
organization, such as integrity, teamwork, innovation, or excellence.
2. Norms: Informal rules about how members should behave in certain situations. For
example, dress code, punctuality, or how meetings are conducted.
3. Symbols and Language: These include logos, slogans, rituals, or even specific jargon
used within the organization that convey its culture.
4. Rituals and Ceremonies: Regular activities or events like award functions, team
outings, or onboarding processes that reflect and reinforce the culture.
5. Stories and Myths: Narratives about the company's founders, challenges, or past
successes that serve to inspire employees and teach cultural values.
6. Leadership Style: The way leaders interact with employees and make decisions
greatly influences the organizational culture.
7. Environment: The physical workspace layout, flexibility, and facilities also reflect
and shape the culture.
Q.3 Influence of Culture on Manager and Employee
Organizational culture plays a significant role in shaping both manager and employee
behavior. Here's how:
Impact on Managers:
Influences leadership style: A hierarchical culture may lead to more authoritative
leadership, while a flexible culture encourages participative or transformational
leadership.
Affects decision-making: In a risk-taking culture, managers may feel empowered to
innovate; in risk-averse cultures, they may stick to rules and procedures.
Shapes communication: Open cultures promote transparent and two-way
communication, while rigid cultures may limit it.
Sets performance expectations and evaluation: Managers may be more results-
oriented or process-oriented based on the prevailing culture.
Impact on Employees:
Guides daily behavior: Culture helps employees understand what is acceptable and
what is not.
Affects motivation and satisfaction: A supportive and inclusive culture improves
morale and job satisfaction.
Determines collaboration: A team-oriented culture promotes cooperation and mutual
support.
Influences retention: A positive culture keeps employees engaged and reduces
turnover, while a toxic culture can lead to dissatisfaction and attrition.
