What is the culture of your company?

The other day a friend remarked to me about how lucky I am to work for Dale Carnegie Training. Our organization recently suffered a great loss. Our president, Carol Sealey, was killed in an auto accident five weeks ago. My friend marveled at how everyone in our company is committed to carrying on not only what was her mission, but ours.

How does a company grow a culture of friendship, teamwork and mutual respect within its walls? It starts with a great leader. I have written before about the qualities of great leaders -- they work best alongside, not over, their employees. They are hearty in their approbation and lavish in their praise. (A principle from Mr. Carnegie)

Leaders ask questions, and never give direct orders. Most importantly, leaders create environments that allow their employees to practice creativity, and create environments that will encourage their employees' success.

Also, there must be a spirit of cooperation. How many businesses realize there are actually two types of customer service -- external and internal? External customer service is what the customer, clients and vendors see. Internal customer service translates into what type of service is an organization giving its own employees.

We have fun at work. Sometimes we may waste a few minutes making a big deal over some small bit of someone's success, but is that really wasting time? Our sales meetings are fun, sometimes downright corny, but we tend to remember the significant points when they are exaggerated by a funny hat, or prize, etc.

We have meetings in "fun" places, whether it is across the street at a restaurant, or across the state. When you spend time off-site with coworkers, you have an opportunity to bond with them outside of the parameters of work. I cannot imagine getting up and going to a place to work that did not have a t least a little laughter and fun.

Have a clear vision

Each person on our team knows the direction our company is poised to grow. We have all been allowed to have insights and input into the direction of the organization. We also know the goals and visions of the individuals within the company.

It is in this way that we can help each other attain those goals. Regular and effective communication allows us to understand the events that help propel our company and our team members towards success.

Whatever it takes

This is the attitude that each member of the organization must have for the organization to thrive. Carol Sealey taught us "your attitude is the only thing you really have control over in your life." That is as true in business as it is in our personal lives

Knowledge is power

We all realize that to be able to grow and serve our clients, we must continue to learn and grow, both as individuals and as a team. Education is truly a lifelong process. Our company realizes the importance of investing in training and education. This allows us to be adaptable to changes in the economy, business ideologies, and manufacturing philosophies.

If your place of business is due for a culture change, take heed of some of these ideas. Write out a plan, discuss it with coworkers, refine it and put it into action. You will see less sick days, less turnover, less waste, more production and more profitability when the team is pulling together in a pleasant, cohesive workplace.

Sharon Mueller is the regional manager of Dale Carnegie Training. (332-0900 or www.carnegiestl.com)