As the leader of Business Furniture’s people strategy, my goal is to cultivate a vibrant culture that attracts and retains employees. In early 2018, our leadership team participated in a SWOT aligning on where we were excelling and where we needed improvement. A pivotal realization dawned upon us – the key to executing a new strategy rested in the hands of our employees. To maximize the opportunity to improve, we implemented a system of continuous feedback with our employees with three main components.
The first tool was a yearly Performance Climate Survey. This survey is a crucial platform for asking tough questions, assessing our progress in aligning with our vision, and pinpointing areas for growth and change. The feedback we receive from employees guides us in prioritizing actionable steps for improvement. This feedback loop has allowed us to evolve in response to the needs of the modern workforce, embracing the trend of hybrid work while also emphasizing the value of in-person collaboration for a robust company culture.
Our Culture Council is comprised of a cross functional team of employees who act as the second feedback tool. This council acts as a forum for experimenting with new initiatives, such as the Big Give Program, workspace enhancements, and fostering interdepartmental relationships. This is also the team that plans employee events and gatherings, ensuring a lively and engaging workplace environment.
The third feedback mechanism we use is our Post-Project Huddles led by our VP of Client Satisfaction. These huddles come at the end of client projects, providing a forum for our project teams to reflect on lessons learned, gather client perspectives, and propose enhancements for future endeavors. With around 50 huddles conducted annually, this practice reinforces a culture of continuous improvement.
Research featured in Steelcase’s Work Better magazine underscores the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for employee well-being. Acknowledging and valuing employees’ voices and perspectives not only enhances workplace joy but also nurtures a supportive and inclusive environment. By seeking and acting on employee candid feedback, embracing change, and prioritizing employee well-being, we are committed to creating an environment where joy is not just an aspiration but a fundamental priority.
Be the first to comment