David's Discourse blog

1. Define Clear Values & Purpose

• Keep values simple, memorable, and actionable.
• Connect daily work to the company mission.

2. Model the Culture From the Top

• Leaders must demonstrate the behaviors they expect.
• Consistency builds trust more than any policy.

3. Hire People Who Elevate the Culture

• Look for candidates who add new strengths, not clones who “fit in.”
• Use values-based interview questions.

4. Foster Open, Honest Communication

• Create safe channels for feedback.
• Encourage transparency and quick issue-resolution.

5. Reward the Behaviors You Want

• Recognize collaboration, initiative, and continuous learning.
• Celebrate small wins as well as big achievements.

6. Support Employee Growth

• Invest in training, mentoring, and clear career paths.
• Growth-minded teams create growth-minded cultures.

7. Build Rituals That Connect People

• Use onboarding, team meetings, and shared traditions to reinforce values.
• Small, consistent rituals strengthen belonging.

8. Protect Wellbeing & Work–Life Balance

• A healthy culture requires realistic expectations and boundaries.
• Leaders should model balance.

9. Create Psychological Safety

• Encourage questions, ideas, and learning from mistakes.
• Avoid blame; focus on improvement.

10. Evolve the Culture Over Time

• Culture must adapt as the organization grows.
• Use regular check-ins and employee input to refine it.