In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the reasons why maintaining authenticity in your workplace is so important for employers. From increased employee engagement to improved morale, better alignment with employee values and more, there are several reasons why it pays to maintain an authentic, respectful workplace.
At WTA Inc., we’re here to assist businesses around Salt Lake City with various HR services, ranging from outsourced payroll services to worker’s compensation, recruitment and hiring and much more. While part one of our series looked at why authenticity is so important for employers to maintain, today’s part two will look at some of the common qualities of authentic workplaces and employers, plus how to achieve this approach in your workplace.
Stating and Maintaining Values
At the core of any authentic workplace is a set of values that are clearly stated, understood and maintained. This covers everything from diversity and equal opportunity to transparency in communication, top-level leadership buy-in and more.
When values like these are established within an organization, they create a foundation for true inclusivity rather than just lip service. This also means holding every member of the organization accountable to these values, regardless of their position or seniority. It’s crucial for leadership to lead by example and embody these values in all aspects of their work.
A Willingness to Listen and Acknowledge Mistakes
Another big part of authenticity is open communication and a willingness to listen. A truly authentic workplace fosters an environment where all employees feel comfortable speaking up and offering their opinions, regardless of their role. This means actively seeking feedback from employees and taking it into consideration when making decisions.
Additionally, an authentic workplace also acknowledges mistakes and takes responsibility for them. No one is infallible, including employers or leaders. Owning up to mistakes and taking the necessary steps to make things right shows integrity and builds trust among employees.
Empathy and Recognizing Individuality
Every employee is unique, with their own backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. An authentic workplace recognizes this individuality and showcases empathy towards all employees. This means treating each person as an individual rather than just a number or role. It also means making accommodations for different needs and backgrounds.
Valuing Workplace Experiences
For an authentic workplace, it’s important to not just focus on results and productivity, but also the overall experience of employees. This includes their physical, emotional and mental well-being. Employers should prioritize creating a positive and supportive work environment for all employees.
For example, offering mental health resources, flexible work arrangements and other benefits can greatly improve the overall employee experience. This not only shows that the employer values their employees as individuals, but also helps create a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Maintaining authenticity in the workplace is crucial for employers looking to create a positive and inclusive work culture. At WTA Inc., we strive to help businesses achieve this through our various HR services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist your organization in creating an authentic and successful workplace.