You may have heard the phrase “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” It was said to have been uttered by the late executive Peter Drucker, but definitely has moved into popular corporate vernacular as something to live by.
If the phrase hasn’t crossed paths with you yet, let us bring you up to speed. In a nut shell, it means that a company’s real culture always takes precedence over any attempts at policy or strategy that isn’t compatible with the culture.
We agree.
That’s why we believe creating an intentional company culture is so vastly important from day one and beyond. The way people feel, interact and live in the company will outweigh any attempts that aren’t aligned to the actual soul of the company. If you want something to change or be implemented, you have to live it.
Your strategy should align with your company culture and mirror your company’s beliefs and core values. Otherwise, the culture will win. Every time. We encourage businesses to focus on culture as much as their business strategy, because ultimately, it’s just as important, if not more so.
Knowing who you are and what your beliefs are can be a good start. Then knowing what you want your company to look like from the inside can be a solid guide. When considering a new business strategy, match it up to your company’s culture. Is it a fit? Great. If not, go back to the drawing board until you’ve got something that’s a little more cohesive.