Jako Poolman
Last week, we explored how Human Resource Management (HRM) plays a pivotal role in shaping the people behind every successful organisation. This week, we continue the conversation by focusing on organisational culture and its impact on business success.
As Douglas R. Conant aptly said, “To win in the marketplace, you must first win in the workplace.”
"To win in the marketplace, you must first win in the workplace."
What is Organisational Culture?
Organisational culture refers to the shared values, norms, attitudes, and behaviours that define how people work together in a business. It encompasses everything from observed behaviours to the dominant values and philosophies that guide decision-making. Edgar Schein describes culture as “a pattern of shared basic assumptions learned by a group.” Similarly, Joanne Martin emphasises its dynamic and multifaceted nature.
Key characteristics of organisational culture include:
- Observed Behavioural Regularities: How employees interact and communicate.
- Norms: Accepted standards of behaviour within the workplace.
- Dominant Values: The principles that guide decisions, such as innovation or integrity.
- Philosophy: The underlying beliefs that influence policy and management.
- Rules: Formal and informal guidelines for behaviour.
- Organisational Climate: The overall atmosphere or “feel” of the workplace.
A strong, positive organisational culture fosters collaboration, innovation, and long-term success.
How HRM Shapes Organisational Culture
Human Resource Management is the architect and custodian of organisational culture. Through strategic initiatives, HRM influences the workplace environment, ensuring it aligns with the organisation’s goals and values. Here are some key ways HR contributes:
- Policies: Transparent and fair policies build trust and create a sense of stability among employees.
- Training and Development: Continuous learning opportunities show employees they are valued and promote innovation. Specific training initiatives may also further entrench organisational culture in employees.
- Appointments and Recruitment: Hiring individuals who align with the company’s values ensures cultural consistency.
- Ethics and Leadership: HR-driven ethical practices and leadership development foster integrity and accountability.
A strong internal culture directly impacts external customer interactions and experiences with an organisation, which reflect the organisation’s values.
The Impact of Organisational Culture on Business Success
Organisational culture isn’t just an abstract concept—it directly influences business outcomes. A thriving culture leads to higher employee engagement, better retention rates, improved productivity, and stronger customer satisfaction. Companies with strong, positive cultures consistently outperform their competitors.
Consider these examples:
- Netflix: Netflix has built a culture centred on freedom and responsibility. By empowering employees to make independent decisions and maintaining transparency, Netflix fosters creativity and innovation. This culture is a driving force behind its industry leadership.
- Discovery Limited: As a South African leader in wellness and innovation, Discovery’s culture emphasises employee well-being and continuous learning. Through initiatives like the Vitality program, Discovery has created an environment where employees thrive, directly contributing to its success in the marketplace.
How BMT College Develops Culture-Changing HR Professionals
BMT College’s qualifications in Human Resource Management are designed to equip professionals with the tools to shape and enhance organisational culture. Both the Diploma in Human Resource Management and the Advanced Diploma in Human Resource Management prepare students to:
- Develop and implement policies that foster trust and transparency.
- Create training programs that promote growth and innovation.
- Drive recruitment strategies that align with organisational values.
- Lead ethically and inspire teams to achieve their full potential.
The Advanced Diploma, in particular, emphasises leadership development, preparing students to shape and lead cultural transformations within their organisations. With flexible online learning options and strong lecturer support, BMT College ensures students are well-equipped to make an impact in any organisation.
The Role of Organisational Culture in Hybrid and Remote Work Environments
In today’s evolving workplace, organisational culture is critical in hybrid and remote work settings. HR students trained at BMT College are equipped to:
- Use technology to foster collaboration and inclusivity.
- Create policies that address the unique challenges of remote work.
- Maintain engagement and alignment with company values, even when teams are distributed.
Your Opportunity to Shape the Future
The foundation of any successful business is its people. By becoming a culture-changing HR professional, you can drive meaningful change and help businesses win in the workplace and the marketplace.
Are you ready to join a world-class institution and transform your career?
Registrations for the 2025 first semester close in just one month! Take the first step toward your future today. Your Future, Your Way starts here.
