The most productive workplace cultures focus on these two values

While You Little Jerk is focused more on how to create culture, rather than which cultures are best, I’m still often asked, “What kind of culture should I create?” I have strong opinions about what is best, but those opinions are based on my values and priorities.

However…

There has been adequate research performed on productivity in the workplace, and two common threads often emerge are factors in greater productivity: happiness and collaboration. Meaning, when these two layers are present, productivity, satisfaction, and performance are greater.

Economics professor Dr. Eugenio Porto of the University of Glasgow has performed extensive research on the topic of workplace productivity. He discovered that satisfaction, enthusiasm, and genuine interest lead to greater happiness and increased productivity. Finding ways to prioritize these values through intentional activities and affirmed behaviors is a smart place to start.

Regarding collaboration, lively interactions with others is one of the major keys to employee retention. In other words, relationships still matter greatly in the workplace. Which means some of us may want to rethink our position on headphones during the workday. Yes, they can be helpful, but at a cost…increased isolation. Some simple practices to help foster collaboration include employee cross-training, more team social events, and intentional moderated discussions.

My opinions on culture may not apply to everyone, but if you’re in the workplace, being productive applies to all of us. As you’re developing your roadmap for the culture you’d like to create, specifically in the workplace, let me encourage you to start with both employee happiness and collaboration as top priorities.