From Innovation to Customer Satisfaction: How a Strong Culture Can Impact Business Success in Hybrid Work

Are you working from home, at the office, or both? With the rise of hybrid work, many employees are now navigating a mix of remote and in-person work. While hybrid work offers many benefits, it also presents some unique challenges, particularly when it comes to organizational culture. In this blog post, we'll explore why culture is important in hybrid work and share some fun facts along the way.

Why is culture important in hybrid work?

Hybrid work can be challenging, particularly when it comes to communication, collaboration, and connection. A strong organizational culture can help overcome these challenges by promoting a sense of community, fostering communication and collaboration, and promoting employee engagement and retention. Additionally, a strong culture can help maintain company values and vision and improve mental health and wellbeing. e.g. Make the shift for employees from - I know the company's culture to I am part of this culture.

But what exactly is organizational culture?             

In simple terms, culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes that characterize a workplace. A strong organizational culture is one that aligns with the company's mission and values and promotes a positive work environment. Organizations have historically invested heavily in aligning the workforce with their culture. In a hybrid world, however, CHROs must also intentionally invest in providing employees a sense of connection to culture to sustain workforce performance and intent to stay.

What is Culture?

Fun fact: Did you know that companies with strong cultures are more likely to have high levels of employee engagement and lower turnover rates? In fact, according to a study by Deloitte, companies with strong cultures are 3.7 times more likely to have highly engaged employees.

Emotional connection and genuine care by managers

One key aspect of a strong organizational culture in hybrid work is emotional connection and genuine care by managers. Managers who take the time to check in with their employees, express empathy and understanding, and demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being can help build trust, promote engagement and motivation, and improve mental health and wellbeing.

Fun fact: Did you know that employees who feel that their managers care about their well-being are more likely to report higher levels of job satisfaction and organizational commitment? According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, employees who feel supported by their managers are more likely to stay with their current employer. (This we have known through various studies and it is time now to invest in people managers to develop their " Human Skills " )

Building a sense of community

Another important aspect of a strong organizational culture in hybrid work is building a sense of community. In a hybrid work environment, employees may feel disconnected from their colleagues and the company's overall culture. To combat this, it's important to establish a strong culture that promotes a sense of community and belonging among all employees.

Fun fact: Did you know that companies with a strong sense of community are more likely to have high levels of innovation and creativity? According to a study by Harvard Business Review, companies with a strong sense of community are more likely to have employees who feel empowered to take risks and try new things.

Fostering communication and collaboration

Finally, a strong organizational culture in hybrid work should emphasize communication and collaboration. In a hybrid work environment, communication and collaboration can be challenging, particularly if some employees are working remotely. By promoting open communication channels and encouraging collaboration, organizations can help overcome these challenges and promote a positive and productive work environment.

Fun fact: Did you know that companies with high levels of collaboration are more likely to have high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty? According to a study by McKinsey, companies that prioritize collaboration are more likely to deliver high-quality products and services that meet their customers' needs.

In conclusion, a strong organizational culture is critical in a hybrid work environment. By emphasizing emotional connection, building a sense of community, and fostering communication and collaboration, organizations can create a positive and inclusive culture that promotes engagement, motivation, and well-being. So whether you're working from home, at the office, or both, remember that culture matters, and it can make all the difference in your work and your life

Fun fact : Did you know that organization's wellness programs have 3.7 times return on investment ? Yes, this is fact.

References

1. Gartner HR Leader's Monthly - Jul 2022 edition

2. Gartner HR Priorities 2023 

3. Harvard Business Review  2022 Article