5 Cultural Norms to Break in the Workplace
The modern workplace has evolved a lot over the years, but some age-old cultural norms still persist. These norms can be limiting and detrimental to the overall health and growth of a company. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five cultural norms that need to be broken in the workplace.
The 9-5 Work Schedule
For years, the 9-5 work schedule has been the norm in most workplaces. However, in today’s fast-paced business world, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to fit all the necessary work into an eight-hour window. Employees are often forced to work late to get their work done, leading to burnout and decreased productivity. To break this norm, companies can offer flexible work schedules that allow employees to work when they’re most productive. Alternatively, companies can also experiment with shorter work weeks or remote work options to break free from the 9-5 grind.
The Idea of “Face Time”
Many workplaces still place a high value on “face time.” This refers to the idea that employees need to be present in the office for a certain number of hours to demonstrate their commitment to the job. However, this mentality ignores the fact that some employees can perform better outside of traditional office hours. To break this norm, companies should focus on results instead of hours worked. This will empower employees to work on their own terms and, in turn, produce better results.
A Fixed Hierarchical Structure
The workplace hierarchy has long been a fixed norm. However, this traditional structure can stifle communication, creativity, and collaboration. When there’s a rigid hierarchy, employees are less likely to share their ideas and feedback with those in positions of higher authority. To break this norm, companies should create a more flat organizational structure. This will encourage cross-collaboration and allow all team members to have a voice in the decision-making process.
The Fear of Failure
Failure is a natural part of the learning process, yet many workplaces still fear it. This fear can impact employee productivity, creativity, and innovation. To break this norm, companies need to build a safe space where employees can experiment, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. This will create a culture of innovation where employees feel comfortable taking chances and pushing boundaries.
Strict Dress Codes
In many workplaces, dress codes are still enforced, requiring employees to adhere to a strict dress code, which can stifle creativity and self-expression. To break this norm, companies should adopt a flexible dress code policy that allows employees to express themselves while still maintaining a professional image.
Conclusion
Breaking these cultural norms in the workplace can go a long way in creating a healthy and productive work environment. By offering flexible work schedules, focusing on results over “face time,” adopting a flat organizational structure, creating a culture of innovation, and implementing a flexible dress code policy, companies can improve employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity in the long run.
