Culture is something we all share, but it’s not experienced the same way by everyone. Leaders often see a polished version of their organisation’s culture—one that feels aligned and cohesive. However, for those on the front lines or in different roles, the experience can look and feel very different...
Does your workplace hold onto traditions and rituals that have been around for decades?
While continuity and tradition can create meaning and connection, outdated rituals risk sending the wrong signals to your people. Instead of fostering belonging, they can unintentionally act as a disconnect, lea...
Shared language is one of the most powerful tools in culture. It connects people, fosters belonging, and helps teams work more efficiently. Jargon, when used well, acts as a shorthand that simplifies communication and keeps things moving.
But shared language has a dark side.
When jargon proliferat...
If I followed you around for a week—listening to your conversations, observing where you spent your time (and with whom), and noting what you emphasised versus what you ignored—what would I think was important to you?
Would I know what mattered most?
Your people notice what you pay attention to. A...
Rituals are the heartbeat of culture. They’re the norms and unwritten rules made visible through collective behaviours that are repeated, shared, and learned.
Rituals help build and strengthen connections among team members and convey your culture’s values and priorities. They show up in welcoming ...
In 2022, I worked with a client to address a growing frustration: decision-making had become slow, bureaucratic, and burdensome. What had once been a cultural strength—safekeeping and legal diligence—had evolved into a shadow that hindered performance.
The organisation had a top-tier legal team, bu...
In a McKinsey survey of more than 1,000 participants from US companies, 82% agreed on the importance of purpose. Yet only 42% felt their company’s stated “purpose” had any real effect.
Honestly? That’s not surprising.
Many organisations have purpose statements so generic that they fail to inspire ...
Sharing stories connects us to our shared culture and to each other.
For as long as humankind has existed, culture has been passed down through storytelling. Stories help us understand the world, make sense of our experiences, and connect with one another. The workplace is no different.
When leade...
What Do People Want from Their Leaders?
As a leader, your team is looking to you.
But with so many competing demands, it can be hard to know where to focus. What truly matters when it comes to leading and engaging your team?
At the heart of it all, people are looking for Clarity, Connection, Capa...
