What you really need to know about workplace culture

I should probably start with a bit of context, that image above of a bunch of very drunk young folks having the time of their lives in 2008. That photo? It’s not just a random party snapshot. It captures the essence of one of the best years of my life, working as an outdoor pursuits instructor at PGL. The smiling faces in that picture represent a tiny fraction of a much larger team, embodying one of the most fantastic work cultures I’ve ever experienced. This is precisely what I want to unpack here – the idea that stepping away and embracing our humanity is the key to building a strong work culture.

The Big Picture: More Than Just a Desk Job

Imagine a regular day at the office: people buried in their laptops, a silent symphony of typing and clicking. It's easy to get lost in this routine, like being too close to a painting, meaning you miss the whole picture. The magic happens when you step back – way back. Remember those off-site days, away from the buzz of fluorescent lights and the hum of computers? Those are the days that bring clarity and purpose, reminding us of the 'why' behind our daily grind.

In PGL we got paid embarrassingly low wages, worked long hours, in rain and snow, got dirty, exhausted and we made mistakes at times. But none of that mattered because we all had a shared sense of purpose and belonging. We knew why we were there and that our goals would be easy to achieve if we worked together towards it. Of course, it wasn't perfect; we had issues, and people had arguments, but when it came to the crunch, it was about working together to get the job done.

Real Bonds: Beyond Office Walls

There’s a misconception about team bonding. It doesn’t happen during those five-minute coffee breaks or in the queue for the printer. Real bonding occurs when you're out there, maybe not saving the world, but definitely not talking shop. It’s about the impromptu football match, the group hiking trips, or those volunteer days cleaning up a local park.

These moments created a camaraderie and bond that didn't just evaporate when stress hit the fan at work. It created a team that would gladly work over contracted hours, in all conditions, even if it meant being late for dinner or social plans. Often without the need for anyone to ask for help, if someone saw it was needed, they jumped right in to help.

Giving a Damn About Every Voice

Now, here's where many companies drop the ball: actually listening to their employees. And I mean genuinely hearing them out, not just the obligatory nod-and-smile during meetings. Everyone’s voice matters, from the newbie to the CEO. Those seemingly minor grumbles at the water cooler? They could be shedding light on bigger issues simmering under the surface. Ignoring these can be a recipe for disaster or, at the very least, a missed opportunity to nip problems in the bud before they become something bigger.

Yes, we had management at PGL; yes, they got paid more than us and had nice, warm offices. But they listened to everyone regardless of their role or length of service. This meant that nobody felt embarrassed to voice their concerns, suggest ideas or ask for a hand with something.

Culture Isn’t Just a Fancy Word

Culture is more than just a buzzword or something you slap on a motivational poster. It’s the vibe you get when you walk into a place. It’s about what happens when the boss isn’t around – how people treat each other, how decisions are made, and how both successes and failures are handled. Are your team members just cogs in a wheel, or do they feel like they’re part of something bigger, something meaningful? And most importantly, are they allowed to be their true selves or a manicured image?

We had so many different characters in PGL, including some oddballs, but as long as they were a good person and were willing to chip in with the team, their individuality and quirkiness was accepted completely. I even remember staff parties themed on the individual quirkiness of particular staff members (who were of course in on the joke)

Wellbeing: Beyond the Token Gestures

So, you’ve got fruit bowls in the pantry and free yoga classes – great start, but that’s just the tip of the wellbeing iceberg. In fact, I would argue that these things should come last, after the real work on the culture and support initiatives has been done. These initiatives are excellent, but they’re not cure-alls. A toxic work culture can’t be masked with superficial perks. Wellbeing is about feeling valued, heard, and connected – not just the absence of illness or having access to healthy snacks.

Crafting a Kickass Culture

Building a work culture that resonates with every team member is about authenticity. It’s about creating an environment where people can truly be themselves, share ideas without fear, and feel appreciated for their unique contributions. Celebrate the victories, sure, but also be open about the setbacks. Learn from them and grow together.

Diversity isn’t just a quota to meet; it’s about bringing a rich mix of perspectives to the table, enriching the company’s culture in ways nothing else can.

To Wrap It Up

In essence, if you want your company to be more than just a place where people show up, grind, and leave, focus on your culture. It’s the soul of your organization.

It's not about getting drunk, I don't even drink these days; it's about team members feeling connected and valued; they’re not just more productive – they’re happier, more engaged, and more invested in their work. And isn’t that what we’re all striving for? A place where work feels less like a chore and more like a part of our human experience.