Are you a business leader who is an exception to the rule?

As a business leader, one of your key responsibilities is to create a productive culture within your organisation. However, this is often easier said than done. In a recent conversation with Makoto, Chris Goddard discussed the challenges of addressing negative organisational culture and why leaders should invest in making changes.

Creating a positive culture

According to Goddard, the purpose of leadership is to create a productive culture. But, in his experience, this is the exception rather than the rule. Many businesses struggle with cultural and productivity issues, and leaders often fail to provide their team members with clear expectations and feedback.

As a leader, your team members have three fundamental questions: What is my job? How am I doing in my job? And what is my future with the company? If you fail to provide clear answers to these questions, you risk creating a culture of confusion and dissatisfaction.

Creating a productive culture

Goddard emphasised that building a productive culture is not rocket science. It requires three key tools: systems, symbols, and behaviours. Systems refer to the processes and procedures that govern how work is done. Symbols are the visual cues that communicate the company’s values and culture. Behaviours are the actions and attitudes that employees are expected to demonstrate in the workplace.

To create a productive culture, leaders must eliminate counterproductive behaviours and help team members become more productive. This requires a deep understanding of the company’s culture and a willingness to make changes where necessary.

Culture developed in consultation

While leaders can turn to consultants for support, Goddard stresses that changing the culture is ultimately the leader’s responsibility. However, consultants can provide valuable insights and perspectives that may not be immediately apparent to the leader.

Creating a productive culture is essential for any business looking to succeed in today’s competitive market. Leaders must be willing to invest time and effort into building a culture that promotes productivity, clarity, and satisfaction. By focusing on systems, symbols, and behaviours, and seeking support where necessary, leaders can create a work environment that supports their team members and their company’s success.

About Chris Goddard

Holding an Engineering Degree focused on engineering, management and process control, Chris Goddard has led or supported large scale sustainable operational & commercial transformations in Australia & New Zealand over the past two decades.

His formidable resume encompasses a career in various transformational, commercial and business improvement roles with the likes of NZAS, Boyne Smelters, Comalco Aluminium Limited and Rio Tinto.

Chris now enjoys a more relaxed pace with his wife Donna in Otago, where together as Black Swan Consultancy New Zealand they provide support to various SME and local community in core skills including lifting leadership capability, risk management, managing external stakeholders & business transformation.

Reach out if you want to know more about how to create a culture of continuous environment in your workplace.

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Respect,

Daniel.