Organizational culture is the set of values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that define how people in an organization interact with each other, with stakeholders, and with the environment. It is the shared identity of the organization that shapes its mission, vision, and goals. Understanding the primary characteristics of organizational culture is essential for leaders, managers, and employees who want to create a healthy and productive work environment. In this article, we will discuss the seven primary characteristics of organizational culture and their importance.

1. Shared values and beliefs

The first primary characteristic of organizational culture is shared values and beliefs. These are the guiding principles that shape how people in the organization think and act. Shared values and beliefs are often expressed in the company's mission statement, vision statement, and core values. For example, an organization that values teamwork, innovation, and customer satisfaction will make these values explicit in its culture. Shared values and beliefs are important because they help align the actions and behaviors of employees with the strategic goals of the organization.

2. Norms and behaviors

The second primary characteristic of organizational culture is norms and behaviors. Norms are the unwritten rules that define how people in the organization should behave. Behaviors are the observable actions that people take in response to the norms. Norms and behaviors can be positive or negative, and they can have a significant impact on the organization's performance. For example, if an organization has a norm of working long hours and sacrificing personal life for work, it may lead to burnout and low morale among employees.

3. Communication style

The third primary characteristic of organizational culture is communication style. Communication is the lifeblood of any organization, and the way people communicate reflects the culture of the organization. Communication style includes the tone, language, and format of communication. For example, an organization that values transparency and openness will have a communication style that encourages honest feedback and discussion. Communication style is important because it shapes how people perceive the organization and how they interact with each other.

4. Leadership style

The fourth primary characteristic of organizational culture is leadership style. The leadership style of the organization can have a significant impact on its culture. Leadership style includes the behaviors, attitudes, and actions of leaders in the organization. For example, a transformational leader who inspires and empowers employees will create a culture of innovation and collaboration. Leadership style is important because it sets the tone for the organization and influences the behavior of employees.

5. Organizational structure

The fifth primary characteristic of organizational culture is organizational structure. Organizational structure refers to the way the organization is designed and how tasks are divided and coordinated. Organizational structure can be hierarchical or flat, centralized or decentralized, and formal or informal. For example, an organization that values autonomy and creativity may have a flat and decentralized structure that allows employees to have more freedom and flexibility. Organizational structure is important because it determines how work is done and how decisions are made.

6. Symbols and artifacts

The sixth primary characteristic of organizational culture is symbols and artifacts. Symbols and artifacts are the tangible and visible aspects of the organization's culture. They include things like the company logo, dress code, office layout, and decorations. Symbols and artifacts are important because they help create a sense of identity and belonging among employees. They also communicate the values and beliefs of the organization to stakeholders.

7. Employee engagement

The seventh primary characteristic of organizational culture is employee engagement. Employee engagement refers to the level of commitment, motivation, and satisfaction that employees have in their work. An engaged employee is someone who is emotionally invested in the organization and is willing to go above and beyond to achieve its goals. Employee engagement is important because it leads to higher productivity, lower turnover, and better customer service.

Organizational culture is a complex and multifaceted concept that has a significant impact on the performance and success of an organization. The seven primary characteristics of organizational culture – shared values and beliefs, norms and behaviors, communication style, leadership style, organizational structure, symbols and artifacts, and employee engagement – are interrelated and interdependent. Understanding these characteristics and their importance is essential for creating a healthy and productive work environment. Leaders, managers, and employees who embrace these characteristics can build a strong and resilient organizational culture that supports their mission and vision.