Justin Gerrard

Choosing to inject levity or joy in a workplace is a meaningful way to positively impact you company’s work culture. Let’s face it, work can be stressful, especially in the early stages of a startup when you're hunting for that elusive PMF. Taking a moment to lighten the mood after a heated debate can keep things from getting out of hand and help preserve those essential social bonds crucial for the success of budding teams.

Fostering a positive office culture hinges on empowering employees to excel. According to the Harvard Business Review, leaders who empower their teams are not only more effective in influencing creativity and positive behavior but also earn greater trust from subordinates and achieve better employee performance. Authentic and consistent empowerment by leadership boosts employee confidence and commitment, ultimately driving superior business outcomes.

In the early stages of a startup, forging a distinct culture is pivotal for success. Culture forms the bedrock of team interactions, impacts how employees show up each day, and establishes expectations based on shared values. Absent these elements, companies face increased difficulty in collectively pursuing common goals, and a lack of cohesion is a killer for startups.

Publicly acknowledging a job well done is a key way to foster employee belonging. Managing the work environment can be challenging, mentally taxing, and ambiguous. Rewarding achievement, particularly when acknowledged by peers, can boost morale and instill more confidence.

Diverse employee backgrounds and experiences contribute to innovation and positive business outcomes. Harvard Business Review research shows that diverse companies perform better financially, with nearly 10% higher EBIT margins for those with diverse management teams. Embracing diversity not only fosters inclusivity, but positively impacts the company's bottom line.

Entrepreneurs can foster a sense of belonging in the workplace by prioritizing consistent and structured feedback sessions. In today's hybrid work environments, where employees interact both in person and remotely, these sessions play a crucial role in aligning the company culture and enhancing visibility. Furthermore, providing regular feedback with mutual respect can build trust and strengthen bonds among employees, contributing to the overall success of the business at every stage.