Organizational culture is a crucial aspect of any company, as it shapes the behavior, values, and beliefs of its employees. It is a combination of shared values, beliefs, and practices that guide the behavior of individuals within an organization. Different levels of organizational culture exist, and identifying the deepest level of organizational culture is important for businesses to understand how to shape and improve their culture. In this article, we will explore the various levels of organizational culture and identify which is the deepest.

The first level of organizational culture is the visible level. This level is the most obvious and can be easily observed by outsiders. It includes the physical environment, such as the office design, dress code, and layout. The visible level also includes the company's mission statement, values, and goals. These elements are often displayed on the company's website, in the lobby, or in other public areas. The visible level of organizational culture is important because it helps to create a first impression for new employees and potential clients.

The second level of organizational culture is the espoused level. This level includes the values and beliefs that are stated by the company's leaders and managers. It is what the company claims to believe in and what it strives to achieve. The espoused level of organizational culture is often communicated through speeches, presentations, and company policies. It is important for a company to ensure that the espoused level of its culture aligns with its actions, as any inconsistencies can lead to a lack of trust and credibility.

The third level of organizational culture is the enacted level. This level includes the values and beliefs that are actually practiced by the employees. It is the way that things are actually done within the organization, regardless of what is stated at the espoused level. The enacted level of organizational culture can be observed through the behavior of employees, the decisions that are made, and the way that conflicts are resolved. It is important for a company to ensure that the enacted level of its culture aligns with the espoused level, as any disconnect can lead to a lack of trust and employee disengagement.

The fourth level of organizational culture is the underlying assumptions level. This level includes the deeply ingrained values and beliefs that are often unconscious and taken for granted. These assumptions are so deeply ingrained that they are often not even recognized by the employees. The underlying assumptions level of organizational culture is the deepest level, as it shapes the way that employees perceive and interact with the world around them. It is important for a company to identify its underlying assumptions, as they can have a significant impact on the company's success or failure.

So, which of these levels is the deepest level of organizational culture? The answer is the underlying assumptions level. This level is the most difficult to identify and change, as it is often unconscious and deeply ingrained. However, it is also the most important level to address, as it shapes the behavior and actions of employees. By identifying and addressing the underlying assumptions level, a company can create a more positive and productive organizational culture.

One example of underlying assumptions in organizational culture is the belief that long work hours are necessary for success. This assumption may be so deeply ingrained that employees do not question it, even if it leads to burnout, stress, and a lack of work-life balance. By addressing this underlying assumption, a company can create a culture that values employee well-being and productivity.

Another example of underlying assumptions in organizational culture is the belief that competition is necessary for success. This assumption may lead to a cut-throat work environment where employees are pitted against each other, rather than working collaboratively. By addressing this underlying assumption, a company can create a culture that values teamwork and cooperation.

Organizational culture is a crucial aspect of any company, and understanding the different levels of organizational culture is important for shaping and improving it. While the visible, espoused, and enacted levels of organizational culture are important, the underlying assumptions level is the deepest and most important level to address. By identifying and addressing underlying assumptions, a company can create a more positive and productive organizational culture that supports the well-being and success of its employees.