Co-founder, Powernow, Michael Olaitan has said that many organisations suffer from a toxic culture, where employees feel undervalued and unmotivated.

He said this doesn’t just affect productivity but it can also impact the mental well-being of everyone involved.

In his words, “As leaders, we often face a daunting challenge: shaping and maintaining a positive company culture. It’s a struggle that can keep you awake at night, worrying about disengaged employees, high turnover rates, and the overall morale of your teams.

Speaking on the weight of company culture, he said: “Imagine walking into your workplace and the air is thick with tension. Colleagues avoid eye contact, conversations are whispered, and the once-vibrant energy has faded. This was the reality for a friend of mine who stepped into a leadership role at a struggling company. He inherited a team that was demoralized, feeling defeated by a lack of recognition and support. It was like walking into a graveyard, he told me he had to change it, but didn’t know where to start.

This story resonates with so many leaders. When company culture goes sour, it affects everything: creativity, collaboration, and even the bottom line. A toxic culture can lead to high employee turnover, increased absenteeism, and a general sense of discontent. Employees who feel unsupported are less likely to go the extra mile, which can stifle innovation and hinder growth. But the good news is that, as a leader, you have the power to turn things around. With the right approach, you can create a vibrant and supportive culture where everyone thrives.

On the importance of company’s culture, he said: “Company culture encompasses the values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape how employees interact and work together. It’s more than just a mission statement or a set of rules; it’s the unwritten code that governs daily interactions. When the culture is strong, employees feel a sense of belonging and commitment to their work. They are more likely to collaborate, share ideas, and support one another.

On the other hand, a weak culture can lead to a lack of trust and communication. Employees may feel isolated, leading to disengagement and dissatisfaction. According to a Gallup report, organizations with a strong culture experience 21% higher profitability and 17% higher productivity. These statistics highlight the crucial role that company culture plays in overall success.

Building a Better Culture: Insights from Michael Olaitan
Michael Olaitan has spoken extensively about the importance of nurturing a healthy workplace culture. His insights can help leaders develop actionable strategies to improve their company culture. Here are some practical solutions inspired by his teachings that you can implement to built a positive environment for your teams:

Core Values Together: “Instead of dictating values from the top, invite your team to participate in defining them. Host a brainstorming session where everyone can share what matters most to them. This collaborative approach not only creates a sense of ownership but also ensures that the values reflect the true spirit of your team.

For instance, a company I know held a workshop where employees from different departments came together to discuss their values. They engaged in open conversations about what they believed should guide their work. The result? A set of values that everyone resonated with, boosting a stronger sense of community and purpose.

Communicate Openly and Honestly
Transparency is key in building trust within your team. Regularly share updates about the company’s direction, challenges, and successes. Michael Olaitan emphasizes the importance of open communication. When employees feel informed, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed.

Consider setting up weekly team check-ins or a company newsletter to keep everyone in the loop. These channels can serve as platforms for sharing not only successes but also lessons learned from failures. By discussing challenges openly, you create an environment where employees feel comfortable voicing their concerns and ideas.

Transforming company culture takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. As leaders, you have the opportunity to create a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. By following the insights shared by Michael Olaitan and implementing these practical solutions, you can navigate the challenges of company culture and build an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive.