7 Ways to Create a People-Centric Culture

People-centricity means that the focus is on a person’s needs and feelings. In a corporate environment, it signifies that employees’ well-being is fundamental. 

“Take care of your employees and they will care of your business. It’s as simple as that.” - Richard Branson

We live in an era dominated by vast data, countless algorithms, and relentless analysis. Yet, despite how complex and distant this may seem, at the core, it's all about us—the people. Our choices, preferences, ideas, and reactions drive it all. Data-driven decision-making is now a crucial factor for a company's competitiveness. However, a company cannot truly thrive without considering the human element in daily operations, the social dynamics at work, individual motivations, and emotional factors. A people-focused corporate culture is a key contributor to success: it boosts employee engagement and enhances the company's reputation among customers, partners, and potential hires.

Know how your people are feeling 

In a people-centric culture, understanding and addressing employees' feelings is essential for creating a positive, productive, and supportive work environment. It has numerous benefits, including higher engagement, better performance, improved retention, and enhanced overall organizational success.

A pulse survey is a concise, single-question survey used more frequently than traditional workplace surveys. Companies use it periodically to gauge employees' overall mood or stance on specific issues. A key aspect of this survey is the ability to promptly respond to results. If needed, actions are developed and implemented to address current issues, followed by immediate feedback in subsequent pulse surveys. You can send it out online to get quick feedback on their mood! 

Pulse survey

Support inclusion and diversity

This inclusive approach also benefits the existing workforce. Often, talent is present but needs encouragement to thrive. In a diverse and inclusive environment, employees feel more confident to voice their opinions and share new ideas. This leads to individual success, increased productivity and satisfaction, and greater innovation within the company.

Make learning management a priority

Alongside acquiring new skills, skill development enhances employee engagement by demonstrating that their employer values and fosters their growth. People-centered management involves providing opportunities for both personal and professional development.

An effective performance appraisal and feedback culture is equally vital. Employees may experience heightened uncertainty when unaware of their employer's satisfaction with their work. Therefore, it's essential to establish platforms that offer consistent feedback, reinforcement, and ongoing assessment of individual and team performance.

E-learning

Make changes where necessary and avoid chaos

Listening to experiences, needs, and feelings is only meaningful when followed by concrete actions. Employers must implement the proposed changes necessary to enhance employees' working conditions or situation. However, it's crucial to avoid acting impulsively or without careful consideration (which could lead to chaos!). Balance both the business and human aspects thoughtfully and consistently: the goal is not to relinquish control and responsibility to employees but to create an optimal working environment and conditions for them.

The exit interview, typically one of the final steps in an employee's journey with a company, involves a discussion between an employer representative and the departing employee about the reasons for leaving. Topics covered may include the employee's perception of their role, managers, the organization as a whole, and their experience within the team. Exit interviews can be conducted in person, online, or through a questionnaire.

Use appropriate communication channels

In today's ever-evolving business landscape, digital transformation has become ubiquitous. Internal communication stands out as a critical factor for achieving business success amidst this dynamic environment. Mobile applications emerge as powerful tools in this regard, centralizing information and fostering collaboration. Designing and implementing such apps requires meticulous planning, with a focus on user experience and data security. These applications boast advanced features that enable organizations to operate sustainably and efficiently.

Enhancing internal communication through a mobile app offers numerous benefits to the corporate environment. It boosts communication, facilitates collaboration, and increases efficiency among employees. A well-chosen and well-implemented mobile app can significantly enhance business performance and overall effectiveness.

Employee app

Promote work-life balance and employee well-being

A people-centered corporate culture extends beyond the company's walls. It prioritizes employees' physical and mental health, offers flexible working hours to support work-life balance, and fosters cohesive workplace communities. This approach puts individuals at the forefront, addressing their unique needs and challenges, and supports them in developing their talents at work while respecting their private lives.

1-on-1 meetings are face-to-face conversations that allow you to connect with your team members on both a professional and personal level. These meetings offer the opportunity to inquire about their personal lives and discuss what matters most to them. This personal context fosters a deeper understanding and creates a supportive environment where your colleagues feel safe to open up.

Show respect and appreciation 

Respect and appreciation create a positive work environment, leading to higher morale and job satisfaction. This atmosphere builds trust among team members, essential for effective collaboration and teamwork. Feeling appreciated boosts employee engagement, making them more committed and productive. Additionally, respectful workplaces promote well-being by reducing stress and anxiety, resulting in better mental health.

Recognition

Overall, a people-centric culture creates a positive feedback loop where employees feel valued and motivated, leading to better performance and outcomes for the company. This holistic approach to business fosters a thriving workplace where both employees and the company can grow and succeed together.