What is one key lesson you've learned about building a strong and positive company culture? How have you applied this lesson in your role as CHRO?

Question

Building a robust and positive company culture is crucial for any successful organization. In this Q&A, top leaders like Founders and CEOs share their most impactful lessons. From prioritizing team trust over metrics to promoting inclusivity in the workplace, these insights offer valuable guidance. With a total of twenty expert opinions, discover the first lesson on team trust and the final note on inclusivity.

Malvika Jethmalani · Answer

One of the most critical lessons I've learned about building a strong and positive company culture is this: delivering on metrics at the expense of team trust and cohesion is not true success. A leader who achieves targets while leaving behind disengaged teams or a toxic work environment is failing in their role. Early in my career, I recognized that brilliance alone isn't enough if it comes packaged with behavior that erodes morale or collaboration. This principle aligns with what Netflix famously calls "brilliant jerks" - high achievers who undermine teamwork. Their stance, which I fully embrace, is that the cost of tolerating such behavior far outweighs the benefits.
In each of my CHRO roles, I approached this lesson systematically. During my onboarding or listening tours, I would partner with CEOs and key stakeholders to assess the talent landscape. This process involves identifying high performers, retention risks, and those whose behaviors impede team effectiveness. For individuals falling into the "brilliant jerk" category, I worked collaboratively with their leaders to implement structured plans, including coaching, feedback, and training to address the behavior.
If sustained improvement didn't follow, I partnered with the appropriate stakeholders to act decisively. This might mean transitioning the individual into a role better suited to their strengths or, in some cases, facilitating a respectful and dignified exit. While letting someone go is never easy, doing so with transparency and empathy ensures the process is humane and aligned with the organization's values. Importantly, in every instance where we removed a brilliant jerk, team performance improved - often dramatically.
Speed is essential in these situations. A delayed response signals to the broader team that leadership tolerates toxic behavior, eroding trust and undermining stated cultural values. When leaders tolerate exceptions to cultural norms, values start to feel like corporate wallpaper - decorative but meaningless.
On the flip side, addressing these issues promptly creates space for leaders to focus on nurturing high performers and rising stars. Redirecting energy toward coaching and supporting top talent elevates both people and business outcomes. It's a reminder that culture isn't just a buzzword - it's the foundation of sustainable success.
This approach requires courage, but the results are worth it: stronger teams, a healthier culture, and improved business results.

Vikrant Bhalodia · Answer

One key lesson I've learned about building a strong and positive company culture is the power of active listening at all levels. It's not just about hearing employees' concerns but creating ongoing opportunities for them to share ideas and feel valued.
In my role, I introduced regular feedback sessions and anonymous surveys to give employees a voice. But what made the real difference was when we acted on that feedback. For example, when a team suggested improving sprint planning by redefining roles, we piloted their idea, refined it, and shared the success with the whole company. This showed employees their input mattered and inspired even more open communication.
When employees see their suggestions lead to real change, it builds trust and a sense of belonging. For me, listening isn't just a strategy, it's a foundation for collaboration and mutual respect. That's how culture moves from being a concept to something employees genuinely feel every day.

Ahmad Elzahdan · Answer

A key lesson I've learned about building a strong and positive company culture is the power of personalized career development. At Audo, we leverage AI to create custom-custom learning paths for employees, which align not just with our strategic goals but also with individual aspirations. This approach not only improves employee satisfaction but also drives our organization's growth.
In my role, I've prioritized transparency and data-driven decision making. At Audo, we provide skill assessments that offer insights into employee competencies, helping us to align skills with roles efficiently. This transparency fosters a culture of continuous learning, empowering employees to take ownership of their growth, which is crucial, especially in a post-pandemic world where adaptability is key.
Additionally, our collaboration with industry leaders, offering courses from platforms like Coursera and Google, has been instrumental. This partnership ensures our team has access to the latest skills training, which in turn boosts their confidence and engagement. When employees feel supported and equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving landscape, it not only builds a strong culture but also positions the company for sustainable success.

Steven Mostyn · Answer

One key lesson I've learned about building a strong and positive company culture is that culture must be intentionally cultivated and aligned with the organization's values, not left to evolve passively. A thriving culture stems from consistent actions, behaviors, and decisions that reflect the company's mission and vision. Without deliberate effort, misalignment can erode trust, engagement, and morale.
As CHRO, I applied this lesson by embedding our core values into every aspect of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment to performance management and recognition. For example, we revised our hiring process to evaluate candidates not just for technical skills but also for cultural alignment. During onboarding, we emphasized our values through interactive sessions that explained how they translate into everyday work behaviors.
To reinforce culture consistently, we created a values-driven recognition program where employees could nominate peers who demonstrated the company's principles in action. Recognizing and celebrating these behaviors publicly helped sustain the culture and encouraged others to embody those values.
Additionally, we used regular pulse surveys and focus groups to gauge how employees perceived the culture. Feedback from these initiatives allowed us to address gaps, such as providing more opportunities for cross-team collaboration to enhance inclusivity and innovation.
The biggest takeaway is that culture is not a "set it and forget it" concept. It requires ongoing attention, reinforcement, and the active participation of leadership. By aligning culture with both values and strategy, I've seen stronger employee engagement, collaboration, and overall organizational success.

Sheraz Ali · Answer

A primary lesson about building a strong and positive company culture is to be open with communication. Having an environment where the participants feel comfortable asking their thoughts and giving feedback forms trust and collaboration. So, as the CHRO, I implemented this lesson by putting regular check-ins and feedback loops across all levels of the organization.
Initiatives, such as anonymous surveys, were introduced to identify gaps in contentment and areas of improvement among staff. Not only are these initiatives effective in helping us address the problem on time, but they also empower the employees to give opinions without any fear of retaliation. Another initiative was monthly town hall meetings where leadership shared updates and encouraged questions from employees, reinforcing transparency in the process.
By engaging in open communication, we have seen an increase in engagement and the belief that one is needed and wanted. This obviously builds a wholesome workplace culture, leading to greater morale and productivity as workers are generally heard, and if heard, they contribute much to making the company successful.

Jean Chen · Answer

Recognizing the profound impact of transparency on company culture has been pivotal. Open communication isn't just about sharing updates or performance metrics. It's about fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. This goes beyond open-door policies. It involves cultivating spaces for genuine dialogue, both digitally and in person, where team members can bring forward ideas and concerns freely.
In my role as CHRO, creating a cohesive team culture involves leveraging a straightforward yet effective framework-the "every voice matters" approach. During weekly meetings, every employee is given the chance to speak on a rotating basis. This isn't just about giving updates; it encourages sharing insights, ideas, and even challenges faced. Over time, this approach builds confidence and reinforces the notion that all contributions are valued, boosting morale and collaboration.
A practical technique I've employed is the use of anonymous feedback tools for capturing honest opinions. People sometimes hesitate to speak out due to hierarchies or fear of judgment. These tools provide a safe avenue for concerns or innovative ideas to be shared without hesitation. Such initiatives not only make the workplace more inclusive but also uncover valuable perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked.

Aja Chavez · Answer

Working in mental healthcare, I've discovered that psychological safety is the foundation of any strong culture - people need to feel safe making mistakes and asking for help. I recently implemented daily team huddles where we openly discuss challenges without judgment, and it's amazing how this simple practice has improved collaboration and patient care. Being transparent about my own struggles and learning moments has encouraged others to do the same, creating a more authentic workplace.

Dylan Cleppe · Answer

One crucial lesson I've learned in building a strong company culture is the power of shared success. At OneStop Northwest, I focus on creating an environment where accomplishments are celebrated as a team, reinforcing collective effort. This approach was especially effective when our digital change services helped a client cut operating costs by 20%. We used this success to fuel enthusiasm and motivation within our team, highlighting everyone's role in achieving such milestones.
Additionally, I believe in the importance of clear communication and mutual support. During the change of OneStop Solutions into OneStop Northwest, frequent, transparent communication ensured everyone was aligned with our vision. This clarity empowered team members to contribute ideas and solutions proactively, fostering a culture of collaboration. By engaging employees in strategy discussions, they felt valued and integral to the company's journey, reinforcing our shared purpose.

Barbara McMahan · Answer

I've learned that culture isn't built through grand gestures, but through consistent small actions that show people they matter. Just last month, I started having informal 15-minute coffee chats with different team members each week, which has helped surface valuable insights and make people feel truly heard. As a CHRO, I now make sure every policy change or initiative starts with asking 'How will this impact our people?' rather than just focusing on efficiency.

Hanna Kanabiajeuskaja · Answer

I've found that the most powerful culture-building moments happen when people connect beyond their job titles and daily tasks. Through organizing hundreds of team events, I've seen how shared experiences - like cooking classes or volunteer days - create lasting bonds that transform workplace relationships. After noticing this pattern, I now encourage companies to build regular, meaningful group activities into their routines rather than treating them as occasional add-ons.

David Zhang · Answer

Building a strong and positive company culture is rooted in one fundamental lesson I've learned: prioritize people over processes. When you focus on fostering an environment where each team member feels valued, respected, and genuinely part of something greater, success naturally follows.

At Kate Backdrops, I've embraced this lesson by actively listening to and empowering our team. We regularly hold check-ins and feedback sessions, not just to discuss work but to understand personal goals and challenges, creating a holistic support system. 
This approach has cultivated a sense of ownership and pride within our staff. I've seen firsthand the impact of investing in our people-higher morale leads to increased productivity, innovation, and loyalty, propelling our company to reach new milestones. It's about showing that every voice counts and every contribution matters, igniting a shared passion that drives us all forward.

Roman Hipp · Answer

Building a strong and positive company culture revolves around trust and open communication. I made the mistake of assuming culture would develop naturally through policies or leadership, but I quickly realized that a true, positive culture happens when everyone feels respected and that their voice matters. It's about creating an atmosphere where people are comfortable sharing ideas, providing feedback, and knowing their contributions are valued.
In my role as co-founder, I made it a point to be more approachable and to actively engage with the team. I started holding informal meetings where people from all levels could voice their thoughts and concerns. This wasn't just about gathering ideas but creating genuine conversations that made everyone feel heard. As a result, we've built a culture where collaboration and transparency are at the core, and that has made a difference in how people approach their work.

Azam Mohamed Nisamdeen · Answer

As the owner of a chatbot business and SEO agency, one key lesson I've learned is that communication and transparency are the foundation of a positive company culture. Employees perform best when they feel heard and understand the company's goals. For example, in my business, I make it a priority to hold regular meetings to discuss progress, address concerns, and share upcoming plans. This helps foster a sense of trust and alignment across the team.
I've applied this lesson by creating an open-door policy and encouraging feedback. For instance, when launching a new chatbot feature, we involve team members from different departments to get diverse perspectives. This collaborative approach has not only led to better products but has also strengthened team morale. A positive culture is about making employees feel valued and ensuring they see their contributions making an impact.

Shehar Yar · Answer

One key lesson I've learned about building a strong and positive company culture is the importance of fostering open communication and transparency. In my experience, employees thrive in an environment where they feel heard, valued, and aligned with the company's vision. As a leader, I've made it a priority to encourage feedback, maintain clear lines of communication, and ensure that every team member understands how their work contributes to the broader company goals.
In my role, I've applied this lesson by regularly holding one-on-one meetings with team members, ensuring their voices are heard, and making sure that they feel part of the decision-making process. This has created a culture of trust and collaboration, where employees feel empowered to contribute their ideas and take ownership of their work. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and openness, we've been able to maintain a strong company culture that supports both individual growth and organizational success.

Chase Mckee · Answer

A key lesson I've learned about building a strong company culture is the importance of failing fast and learning from those experiences. At Rocket Alumni Solutions, we often used this approach by testing various marketing strategies, like creating multiple SEO landing pages, to learn what worked best for user engagement. This flexibility in trying and refining different tactics not only improved our marketing outcomes but also built a culture where experimentation and continuous improvement were encouraged.
Another core aspect is nurturing a sense of belonging through community-driven recognition. We implemented initiatives where employees led projects, such as our wellness program and community service activities. By empowering team members to spearhead activities aligned with their interests, we fostered a sense of ownership and connectedness. This strategy boosted morale and encouraged employees to contribute more meaningfully to our company goals.
Finally, maintaining open communication has been instrumental. Whether through virtual town halls or using tool channels like Culture Amp's #ceo forum for candid Q&A sessions, transparency has improved team cohesion and trust. Employees feel informed and valued, which significantly improves their engagement and productivity.

Wes Wakefield · Answer

One lesson I've learned about building a strong company culture is that you have to embrace the awkward moments. When you're building a team or company, you'll inevitably face uncomfortable situations-whether it's navigating different personalities, handling conflict, or figuring out how to mesh diverse work styles. Avoiding those moments, thinking they'd just work themselves out, was a mistake on my part.
I started treating these "awkward" moments as opportunities for growth. I encouraged open dialogue, even if it was a bit uncomfortable at first, and made sure to create an environment where people felt safe to express disagreements or frustrations. In a way, it was about getting comfortable with the discomfort-showing that it's okay to have hard conversations, as long as everyone's respectful and focused on solutions.

Josh Cremer · Answer

In the course of building and reinventing my agency, one key lesson in creating a strong and positive company culture has been the importance of cutting through the noise with clear and direct communication. Early on, I realized that flashy marketing language wasn't resonating, neither with clients nor internally with my team. I applied this clarity-driven approach not just in our client work but also in fostering an authentic work environment where ideas could be unambiguous and effective.
At Redfox Visual, as we expanded, I faced challenges in maintaining the right focus as work processes became increasingly muddled with administrative tasks. By pivoting and forming the Rohg Agency, I concentrated on eliminating unnecessary complexity, allowing my team room to produce innovative, engaging work. For example, by streamlining project workflows, our branding for the Idaho Lottery stood out distinctly, which wouldn't have been possible in a cluttered communication setup.
Another cultural aspect I emphasized is aligning actions with our ethos of making real, results-driven impacts. By focusing on direct customer engagement and authentic messaging, we create work that retains meaning, which in turn energizes and motivates our team. This shift not only invigorated client relationships but also fostered a more purpose-driven internal culture, where every team member knows their contribution directly correlates to client success.

Debby Durr · Answer

As the Chief Culture Officer of Premier Wealth Partners, I've realized the critical role of a strong workplace culture on individual and team performance. Culture is not just an abstract idea; it forms the foundation of our daily operations and interactions. Engaged team members ignite enthusiasm and initiative, leading to exceptional results. When employees are proud to align with our values, their productivity and ownership of their roles increase significantly.A positive culture fosters trust, respect, and open communication, encouraging innovative problem-solving and collaboration. Conversely, neglecting culture can diminish motivation and performance. Our focus at Premier Wealth Partners is the notion that our team is the company's number one asset --which guides our operations. This commitment to culture empowers team members to excel, driving both individual and collective success.Ultimately, the profound impact of a strong culture is clear: it's more than just a concept; it's the cornerstone of our success. By nurturing this culture, we strengthen our team and enhance the services we provide to our clients and community.

Justin McKelvey · Answer

Building a strong and positive company culture at SuperDupr starts with empathy and understanding. I've found that when you truly understand the needs and aspirations of your team, you're better equipped to create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. For instance, our approach at SuperDupr incorporates fostering open communication and collaboration, which allows team members to voice their ideas and innovations freely. This leads to increased creativity and ownership of projects.
Our work with clients like Goodnight Law and The Unmooring demonstrated the power of a diverse and inclusive team. By bringing together professionals of various backgrounds and skills, we were able to address complex challenges and offer custom solutions that exceeded client expectations. This diversity not only drives business success but also enriches our internal culture by promoting a sense of belonging and purpose among employees. 
Moreover, implementing data-driven strategies that yield measurable results has reinforced the importance of setting clear objectives and providing the resources necessary for teams to achieve them. This not only improves client satisfaction but also instills a sense of pride and achievement within the team, contributing to a positive and productive culture.

John Medina · Answer

One key lesson that I have learned is the importance of inclusivity in creating a strong company culture. Inclusivity refers to the practice of actively involving and valuing all individuals regardless of their background, identity or perspective. It means creating a work environment where everyone feels accepted, respected, and valued for who they are.
As the CHRO of my company, I have made it a priority to foster a sense of inclusivity within our organization. This has been achieved through various initiatives such as diversity training programs, open-door policies, and employee resource groups.
One way that we have applied this lesson is by promoting diversity and equality in our hiring practices. We strive to create a team that represents different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, which not only brings unique ideas and viewpoints but also fosters a sense of belonging for all employees. We have also implemented training programs to educate our employees on the importance of inclusivity and how to create an inclusive work environment. This has helped to break down barriers and promote understanding among our diverse workforce.

20 Key Lessons for Building a Strong Company Culture

20 Key Lessons for Building a Strong Company Culture

Prioritize Team Trust Over Metrics

Act on Employee Feedback

Personalize Career Development with AI

Align Culture with Core Values

Open Communication Builds Trust

Foster Transparency and Dialogue

Create Psychological Safety

Celebrate Shared Success

Value Consistent Small Actions

Connect Beyond Job Titles

Prioritize People Over Processes

Build Trust Through Open Communication

Embrace Communication and Transparency

Foster Inclusivity and Transparency

Learn from Failures and Encourage Growth

Embrace Awkward Moments for Growth

Communicate Clearly and Directly

Engage Team Members to Enhance Culture

Empathy and Understanding Drive Culture

Promote Inclusivity in the Workplace