Have you ever worked in a place where everyone seems energised, ideas flow freely, and the atmosphere is just…positive? Or perhaps the opposite, a place that felt stagnant, with whispers and low morale in the air? Chances are, leadership had a big hand in creating that environment. The culture of a workplace is its heartbeat, and leaders set the rhythm… Leadership shapes culture.

Leaders as Culture Architects

Imagine a leader as the architect of a building. Their vision, values, and behaviours lay the foundation, shape the layout, and determine the overall feel of the space. Similarly, in a workplace, leaders create the blueprint for culture through:

• Modelling the Way: Leaders don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk. Think about the boss who is responsive to emails and gives feedback, the CEO who personally thanks employees for a job well done, or the manager who admits their mistakes and learns from them. These actions send a message about what’s truly valued in the organisation.
• Communicating the Vision: Great leaders don’t just set goals; they paint a picture of what success looks like. When everyone understands the bigger picture and how their work contributes, it fosters a sense of purpose and unity.
• Empowering Others: Micromanagement kills culture. Leaders who trust their teams, encourage innovation, and celebrate wins create an environment where people feel valued and motivated.

The Ripple Effect: How Leadership Shapes Behaviour

Ever noticed how a leader’s mood can seem to infect the whole office? According to research in Harvard Business Review, a leader’s emotions can have a ripple effect on employee morale, productivity, and even customer satisfaction. When leaders are positive, supportive, and enthusiastic, it’s contagious. On the other hand, negativity, fear, and indifference can quickly spread and poison the well.

Let’s say a company is launching a new product. If the CEO is visibly excited and shares their confidence in the team, it’s likely to fuel everyone’s energy and determination. Conversely, if the CEO seems doubtful or critical, it can undermine the team’s confidence and hinder their success.

Real-World Examples: When Culture Goes Right (and Wrong)

Consider Google, a company renowned for its innovative and employee-centric culture. This culture is a direct reflection of its founders, Larry Page and Sergey Brin, who instilled a sense of curiosity, collaboration, and fun into the company’s DNA from the beginning. Google’s famous perks, like free meals, on-site gyms, and “20% time” for personal projects, are just outward manifestations of a deeper cultural ethos.

Conversely, stories of toxic workplaces often point to leadership failures. Volkswagen, for example, faced a major scandal when it was discovered that they had intentionally cheated on emissions tests. The company’s leadership was accused of fostering a culture of secrecy and rule-breaking, where employees felt pressure to achieve results at any cost.

What This Means for Job Seekers

As a job seeker, paying attention to a company’s culture is crucial. Look for signs of positive leadership during your job search:

• Research: Read employee reviews, check out the company’s social media, and even try to connect with current employees to get an insider perspective.
• Ask Questions: During interviews, ask about the company’s values, leadership style, and how they handle challenges.
• Trust Your Gut: Pay attention to how you feel during the interview process. Do people seem happy and engaged? Does the leadership team seem authentic and approachable?

Remember, leadership shapes culture. Choose wisely, and you’ll not only find a great job, but a place where you can thrive.