Brilio.net - Many companies think that a fun work culture is enough by throwing a pizza party or decorating the office. In fact, employees actually need more than just fun events or free food. They want a work environment that makes them comfortable, that supports them to grow, and that makes them feel at home in the long term.
A good work culture is not just about having fun, but also about caring about the welfare of employees as a whole. Employees want to feel appreciated, have room to grow, and not just be considered as machines to run the company. A workplace that makes employees comfortable is one that supports work-life balance, not just demands work.
More than just pizza or happy hour, employees need values that make them feel important. They want to work somewhere that gives them the opportunity to continue learning and feel like they are part of a team.
This time brilio.net discusses the things that employees really want from corporate culture, so that they don't just come to work, but are proud to be part of the company!
What employees really need from a corporate culture
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1. A truly balanced work life balance
It's not just about being allowed to work from home or go home on time, the work-life balance in question is a total balance between work and personal life. Companies need to create clear policies regarding working hours, overtime, and leave.
For example, employees are not disturbed at all outside of working hours unless it is very urgent, there are strict rules about overtime plus compensation, and a flexible leave system. Companies must also respect employee rest time by not sending messages or emails during non-working hours.
2. Transparency of communication and decision making
Employees need honesty and clarity from management about the company's condition, targets, and changes that occur. This transparency includes salaries that are in accordance with workload, bonuses, promotions, and even company policies.
Companies need to hold regular town hall meetings to update important information, create an open feedback system, and ensure that all policies are communicated clearly. Management must also be ready to accept input and criticism from employees.
3. Concrete opportunities for development
Self-development programs are not just limited to once-a-year training or impromptu webinars. Employees need a clear career path and opportunities to upgrade their skills.
Companies need to provide a special budget for education and training, create a structured mentoring program, and give employees the opportunity to try new projects. It is also important to have a fair evaluation and promotion system based on performance and competence.
4. Meaningful recognition and appreciation
Appreciation is not just about end-of-year bonuses or employee of the month. Employees need recognition for their contributions in a more personal way. This can be in the form of specific and direct positive feedback, the opportunity to lead an important project, or a rewards program tailored to employee interests. Companies also need to create a culture of mutual appreciation between teams.
5. Mentally safe work environment
Mental safety in the workplace means employees feel comfortable speaking up, admitting mistakes, or asking for help without fear of being judged. Companies need to create a clear support system for mental health, including free counseling and wellness programs. It is also important to prevent toxic cultures such as gossip, bullying, or discrimination by creating firm policies and a safe reporting system.
6. Competitive and fair compensation
Salary and benefits are not the only important things, but they are still basic needs of employees. Companies need to ensure a competitive compensation system in the industry that is fair internally.
This compensation system includes a base salary that is in line with the market, comprehensive health benefits, and transparent bonuses. Salary reviews must also be carried out regularly and there must be a clear increase system based on performance.
7. Flexibility in working methods
In today's era, employees need more flexibility than just WFH. Generally, employees want to have more control over how, when, and where they work, as long as the work is done well.
Companies need to create systems that measure output, not hours. This includes adaptable hybrid working options, flexible work schedules, and technology that supports remote working.
8. A clear sense of purpose
Today's employees don't just want to get a salary, but also want to feel that their work has an impact. Companies need to have a clear and meaningful vision and mission.
Every employee must understand how their role contributes to the company's larger goals. Substantive CSR programs and opportunities to get involved in social projects can also help build this sense of purpose.
9. Supportive and accessible leadership
A good leader not only gives direction but also supports the team to grow. Companies need to ensure that their leaders have good leadership skills, from communication, empathy, to coaching. Leaders must be accessible to their teams, regularly provide feedback, and even be role models for the company's values.
10. Effective collaboration and teamwork
A healthy work culture requires strong collaboration between teams and departments. Companies need to create systems that encourage cooperation, not internal competition.
This can be in the form of cross-departmental projects, good knowledge sharing systems, even effective collaboration tools. It is also important to create space and opportunities for informal interactions between teams.