As a leader of a tech startup, how would you describe your workplace environment?
Thanks to trademark laws, only Disney can claim to be “The Happiest Place on Earth”. It’s still an ingenious description for us to aspire to, in our corporate cultures. Happy places nurture happy people. Don’t get me wrong- the vibe of most workplaces won’t match the giddy happiness of a theme park. (If yours does, message me!) But it’s critical for leaders to create healthy corporate cultures for the sake of their worker’s happiness, and for the company to thrive.
Unhappiness takes its toll, personally and professionally. Unhappy workers are disengaged, and low engagement costs the global economy $7.8 trillion. Unhappy workers leave, and turnover due to culture may have cost organizations as much as $223 billion over the past five years, according to a 2019 SHRM report on workplace culture.
Happiness is profoundly beneficial. According to Jessica Pryce-Jones, author of Happiness at Work and CEO of iOpener, “Happiness at work is closely correlated with greater performance and productivity as well as greater energy, better reviews, faster promotion, higher income, better health and increased happiness with life. So, it’s good for organizations and individuals, too.”
Happy employees are 180% more energized than discontented colleagues, 155% happier with their jobs, 150% happier with life, 108% more engaged, and 50% more motivated. An Oxford University study determined that happy workers are 13% more productive. According to a Swarthmore study, workers tend to make smarter decisions when they have less fear and anxiety. Happy workers are less likely to quit, they’re more creative, and they’re motivated to make others happy. They’re more attentive and provide better customer service.
A happy corporate culture can be identified by four priorities.
1. Its people are engaged in meaningful work.
In a healthy culture, workers are aligned with the mission of the company. They understand how their role helps the company accomplish the mission. When employees find meaning and purpose in their contributions, they’re healthier, happier, and more productive. And they’re motivated to stick around.
2. Leaders model open communication.
Healthy communication builds trust and connection. This starts with the little things, like calling employees by their names. Literally leave a door open whenever possible, so that you’re accessible for questions. Be transparent with information and include people in decision making when appropriate.
Trust is evidence of a healthy corporate culture. 91% who rate their workplace culture as good say they can trust their supervisor (compared to 24% who rate their workplace culture as poor.)
Encourage gratitude. Call attention to the work well done. Celebrate successes. Be empathetic.
Keep everybody in the loop. This is just as important for in-office employees as remote workers. Being ignored, excluded, or overlooked at work inflicts more damage on physical and mental health than harassment. Establish regular check-ins and look for opportunities to casually touch base. Remind them how their work specifically contributes to the company’s success.
Healthy communication encourages healthy relationships, which inspires loyalty.
3. A happy culture prioritizes inclusion.
Here’s another place where we can take a leaf out of Disney’s book. In a recent blog post, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, elaborated on their company’s commitment to inclusion. He defines inclusion as a place where they’re “cultivating an environment where all people feel welcomed and appreciated for their unique life experiences, perspectives, and culture. Where we celebrate allyship and support for each other. And where diverse views and ideas are sought after as critical contributions towards our collective success.”
This is especially fitting, when you consider that during the dedication of the Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney greeted the guests by saying, “To all who come to this happy place: Welcome.” People want to contribute to a place that sees itself as a source of joy and inspiration.
4. The leaders invest in their people.
A healthy corporate culture offers opportunities for professional success and personal growth.
It starts with intentional onboarding and continues with ongoing training. Leaders provide development opportunities for skills, and for advancement. Studies show that promoting staff to senior roles from within the company reduces turnover, increases productivity, and motivates workers with a bigger picture for their career trajectory.
Greta Iannuccilli, Chief of Staff at RecruitGyan, encourages CEOs to “Grow a team you love, and you’ll always be surrounded by friends.” That’s the kind of team to be happy about!
