Shape the Culture You Want—Before It Shapes You
Nov 27, 2025
Every organization has a culture—whether designed intentionally or left to evolve by default. Culture defines how people behave, interact, make decisions, and ultimately deliver results. It’s the invisible force that either fuels or frustrates your success.
Research by Human Synergistics (2017) shows that a constructive culture—one that supports achievement, self-actualization, esteem, and affiliation—enables people to thrive, collaborate effectively, and reach their full potential. In contrast, defensive or passive-aggressive cultures drain energy and erode trust.
Building a constructive culture begins with leaders’ mindsets. It requires moving from “command and control” to “inspire and enable.” Employees who feel heard, valued, and connected are far more likely to become advocates for the business, championing customers, innovation, and change.
McKinsey (2017) reminds us that “culture is the most significant barrier to effectiveness.” Yet it can also become your greatest enabler—if you shape it intentionally.
To create a culture that attracts and retains great people, leaders must focus on two essentials:
- Clarity – so everyone understands the purpose, direction, and how their role contributes to business success.
- Connection – so individuals feel recognised for their strengths, diversity, and genuinely valued for who they are.
Inspiring leaders model the attitudes and behaviours they want to see. They create environments where people feel encouraged, supported, and empowered—where collaboration and accountability are the norm.
Small Changes That Deliver Big Impact
- Start by defining your desired culture—what beliefs, values, and behaviours will drive your success?
- Engage your team in co-creating culture statements that reflect who you aspire to be, not just who you are.
- Review leadership practices and systems to ensure they reinforce, not contradict, the desired culture.
- Recognize and celebrate behaviours that exemplify your culture in action.
Impact Perspective
When leaders intentionally shape their workplace culture, they unlock higher engagement, stronger performance, and greater innovation. A constructive culture doesn’t just make people happier—it makes the business healthier. Over time, it becomes your most powerful form of competitive advantage.
Reflection Questions for Leaders
- How would my people describe our current culture—and how close is it to the one we want?
- What leadership behaviours and systems reinforce (or undermine) the culture we aspire to create?
- What small actions can I take this month to model and strengthen our desired culture?
