In an era where businesses are expanding at an unprecedented pace, the challenge of preserving company culture during rapid growth or organizational shifts has never been more significant. Studies show that nearly 60% of employees report feeling disconnected from their organization’s culture during times of change, which can severely impact morale and productivity. For leaders, finding effective strategies to maintain a cohesive and engaged workforce is essential.
To shed light on this critical topic, we turn to Sarah Furness, a leading authority in organizational behavior and culture. With her wealth of experience in guiding companies through transitions, Sarah offers valuable insights that can help business leaders and event planners cultivate a strong cultural foundation even amidst upheaval. Let’s explore her expert perspective on how to sustain company culture during transformative periods.
Sarah Furness
Sarah Furness, an expert in organizational development and leadership, emphasizes the importance of maintaining company culture during rapid growth or organizational change. In response to the question, “What strategies can leaders use to maintain company culture during rapid growth or organizational change?” she highlights that culture is shaped not just from the top down but also from every individual within the organization.
Sarah identifies several effective strategies:
- Implement Regular Debriefs: “The debrief is a routine reflection on every mission, allowing for normalizing feedback,” Sarah explains. This practice helps create an environment where giving and receiving feedback becomes less daunting, fostering open communication and continuous improvement.
- Focus on Observable Facts: Feedback should concentrate on observable behaviors rather than assumptions about thoughts or feelings. This approach encourages constructive dialogue among team members, making it easier to address issues without personalizing them.
- Celebrate Successes: Sarah stresses the importance of recognizing achievements alongside identifying areas for growth. By balancing acknowledgment of victories with opportunities for improvement, leaders can cultivate a positive atmosphere that reinforces cultural values.
In summary, implementing regular debriefs, focusing on factual feedback, and celebrating successes are essential strategies for leaders aiming to sustain their company culture during times of change.
As we continue this discussion, more expert insights will follow to further explore effective culture maintenance strategies in dynamic business environments. The key takeaway is to integrate structured feedback processes into your routine to enhance communication and engagement within your team.