Good Company Culture: It's a Necessity

“Culture is one of the most precious things a company has... so you must work harder on it than anything else.”

-Herb Kelleher, Founder, Southwest Airlines

Because a company who works out together, stays together - especially when your CEO is teaching the class!

These days, great company culture is no longer optional - it’s a necessity. Job seekers consider it as much as they consider salary and benefits, which means that attracting top talent almost requires current employees who are both satisfied and thriving.

But what exactly makes a great working environment? Paul Spiegelman, Chief Culture Officer at Stericycle, breaks it down into ten essential components he calls the ”10 Cs of Culture.” We picked out a few - and added some thoughts of our own.

1. Camaraderie. “Knowing you can go up to anyone, ask them a question, and it's a no-judgment zone,“ says Senior Associate Kyle. Camaraderie is also about having fun and getting to know colleagues beyond the office. This makes the work environment more comfortable and can build that feeling of knowing your team has your back. Kyle's favorite thing about working at cred is the sense of community and ”actually going to work with people you want to see after 5 o’clock.”

2. Celebrations. Positive reinforcement is great, and you can’t underestimate the importance of recognizing your team. So celebrate the big wins - and the small ones too!

3. Commitment to people. ”I wanted a job that would allow me to take on multiple roles, learning independently but also through the guidance of others. When your colleagues are willing to help you despite their jam-packed schedules, you’ve hit the jackpot." Companies who invest and trust in their people are the ones who see the most success.

4. Commitment to the business. Going hand in hand with Number 3, the core values of a company are incredibly important. We really feel that you should work for a company you believe in. CEO Caitlin’s favorite thing about cred is “working with an incredible team and learning more about the clients and their stories and passions.” When you believe in what you're doing and are driven by a purpose, work feels less like work.

5. Continuous effort. The work of building a company culture never ends. Beside the people, Associate Stephanie B. loves “the flexibility cred offers us - i.e. making our own hours, unlimited vacation, working from home, etc.” One-on-ones, team meetings, bonding events, and professional development are also important ways to demonstrate that your company cares.

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How does your company maintain a good culture and happy employees?

Share your tips by tweeting them to us at @credPR!