A company’s board of directors plays a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s values and culture. While traditionally seen as stewards of governance and strategy, boards have a growing responsibility to influence workplace culture in ways that promote collaboration and productivity. The means of achieving this is the subject of much debate, however, certain key tenets apply:

Set the Tone at the Top

Boards must lead by example, promoting transparency, respect, and teamwork in their interactions and decisions. A collaborative and inclusive board signals the importance of these values to the rest of the organisation, influencing how leaders and employees approach their work.

Align Leadership with Culture Goals

One of the board's most important tasks is hiring and evaluating executives. Selecting leaders who prioritise collaboration, communicate effectively, and value employee engagement ensures that these traits permeate throughout the organisation. Regular assessments of leadership alignment with cultural goals help maintain consistency.

Establish Clear Vision and Values

Boards should ensure the company’s mission, vision, and values explicitly emphasise teamwork and productivity. When these principles are embedded in corporate policies, performance metrics, and decision-making processes, they become integral to the company culture.

Encourage Open Communication

Boards can support initiatives that break down silos and promote cross-functional collaboration. This includes championing investments in tools and technologies that facilitate communication and providing platforms for employees to share ideas and feedback.

Monitor Culture Metrics

Boards should monitor metrics that reflect workplace culture, such as employee engagement, turnover rates, and collaborative project outcomes. Regularly reviewing these indicators helps identify areas for improvement and ensures accountability at all levels of the organisation.

Recognise and Reward Collaborative Behaviour

The board can guide leadership teams in implementing reward systems that celebrate collaborative achievements. Recognising employees who exemplify teamwork encourages others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positivity and productivity.

Conclusion

Boards of directors have a unique opportunity to shape the cultural foundations of their organisations. By prioritising collaboration and productivity in their strategic oversight, boards not only enhance employee satisfaction but also drive long-term business success. A workplace culture rooted in teamwork and mutual respect is one where innovation flourishes, challenges are tackled collectively, and results are achieved efficiently.