An Action Plan to Improve Your Culture and Minimize Legal Risk
Laying the groundwork for a robust and magnetic culture takes time. It's not something that happens automatically, straight out of the gate. Instead, it is thoughtfully built upon the company's core principles, purpose, vision, and mission — piece by piece until it has been integrated into every aspect of operations and actions.
As your culture strengthens, you'll begin to see tangible benefits related to hiring, engagement, and retention. But a well-defined culture can also minimize your legal risk.
Cultural Expectations
One of the many functions of a deeply ingrained culture is that it essentially outlines the acceptable behavioral standards that the company's leadership will abide by and impress upon their employees. These guidelines provide some indication as to how the company will operate on a day-to-day basis and function within the community.
You've heard the saying made popular by Maya Angelou, "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time." This same sentiment most definitely applies to businesses! If the company's behavior contradicts the stated culture in any way, shape, or form, you'll absolutely feel the backlash from your employees and customers as well as the community at large. More specifically, it can irreparably damage relationships with your team members and increase the potential for lawsuits levied by slighted employees.
Take Action to Improve Your Culture
It's never too late to make improvements to your culture. Think of it as a living, breathing entity — one that requires constant care and nurturing to maintain its vitality. And when this care is taken and your cultural standards are implemented consistently across the board, you can minimize your exposure to legal risks such as employee-initiated litigation.
To make the most of this, you'll want to tighten up the following areas that heavily influence company culture and adopt an action plan to get back on track.
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