Management's role in shaping organizational culture

The types of cultures that exist and manager characteristics that are essential to facilitating a healthy workplace are described and four critical components of culture are discussed, as is the role of managers in turning these into positive cultural traits.

Abstract

Managers are always under the magnifying glass, with each action carefully scrutinized by subordinates. They must exercise caution when making decisions, ensuring that fairness and equitability exists among staff, and that ethical standards are upheld on a continual basis. The four cultural components, viewed as managerial traits of trust and trustworthiness, empowerment, consistency and mentorship coexist at all times regardless of the type of culture. Managers must put support systems and other mechanisms into place that allow employees the opportunity to empower themselves and to flourish, thus increasing their own effectiveness as well as that of the organization.