By SCOTT DRURY and TREVOR DRURY

In the dynamic landscape of today’s professional world, the importance of workplace culture cannot be overstated.

Culture is more than just a buzzword; it is a powerful force that shapes the environment in which employees operate. Whether positive or negative, workplace culture has a profound impact on the morale, productivity and overall success of a company. This article explores the idea that “Culture is Power” by delving into the ways a positive work culture can inspire and uplift employees, and what Bloomsdale Excavating does to ensure our positive culture continues, while also examining the detrimental effects of a negative work culture.

Positive Work Culture:

A positive work culture is similar to a breath of fresh air in the professional realm. It fosters an environment where employees feel valued, supported and motivated. One of the key benefits of a positive work culture is the inspiration it provides. When employees are surrounded by colleagues and leaders who encourage innovation and creativity, they are more likely to think outside the box and contribute fresh ideas. This, in turn, propels the organization forward and fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

Furthermore, a positive work culture uplifts employees emotionally and mentally. A supportive and inclusive workplace fosters a sense of belonging, which is crucial for employee satisfaction and retention. When individuals feel appreciated and respected, they are more likely to invest their time and energy into their work, leading to increased productivity.

Motivation is another facet of a positive work culture. Recognition for accomplishments, opportunities for growth, and a sense of purpose can serve as powerful motivators for employees. When individuals feel motivated, they are more likely to go above and beyond, contributing to the overall success of the organization.

At Bloomsdale Excavating, we consider our workplace to be a place of positive culture, and it all starts with our core values.

Check our ego at the door

Set the bar

Have a positive attitude

Figure it out

The first core value is the most crucial: Check your ego at the door. Bloomsdale Excavating is driven by this core value. It is a place where I, me, my or mine is non-existent and replaced with an honest we and us. We cannot be successful if we are not checking our egos first. It takes teamwork and humility to build a company culture that exceeds many people’s expectations and proves to an employee that they are valued and heard. Developing better people creates better results at home and at work. Employing such people leads to the next core value: Setting the bar.

Setting the bar is our core focus. Being the best in every aspect of our everyday raises the expectations of what our customers and employees think is possible. We set the bar by placing other’s wants, needs and desires before our own.

Our third core value, having a positive attitude, reflects the ability to have positive energy. A great culture transmits motivation and optimism in the face of negativity. Our company color is red, akin to the positive post on a battery all the while being grounded with humility creates power. This can also be described as the difference between Leading with motivation and trust or ruling with fear and intimidation. We are leaders.

Our fourth and final core value is figuring it out. We don’t complain – we give solutions. We give reasons, not excuses. We turn “it” into “it,” whatever “it” needs to be. We achieve and solve together.

Negative Work Culture:

Conversely, a negative work culture can have a detrimental impact on the workplace. Toxic environments characterized by poor communication, lack of support and a culture of blame can lead to decreased morale and increased stress among employees. This, in turn, hampers productivity and can even lead to high turnover rates. Checking your ego can eliminate most of this.

One of the most significant effects of a negative work culture is the erosion of trust among team members. When trust is compromised, collaboration and teamwork suffer, hindering the organization’s ability to achieve its goals. Additionally, employees in a negative work culture are more likely to disengage, leading to a decline in overall performance and creativity.

Moreover, a negative work culture can contribute to a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and burnout among employees. The lack of support and appreciation takes a toll on their well-being, affecting both their professional and personal lives. Ultimately, a toxic work culture becomes a hindrance to success, stifling the potential of both individuals and the organization as a whole.

The impact of workplace culture on the success of an organization cannot be overstated. Culture is power, and a positive work culture serves as a catalyst for inspiration, upliftment and motivation. Conversely, a negative work culture can erode morale, trust and overall well-being, acting as a roadblock to success. Recognizing the importance of cultivating a positive culture is not just a matter of employee satisfaction; it is a strategic investment in the long-term success and sustainability of any organization. As leaders and employees alike understand and embrace the power of culture, they contribute to creating a workplace that inspires greatness and fosters collective achievement.

Scott Drury is president of Bloomsdale Excavating Company, Inc. Trevor Drury is marketing coordinator at Bloomsdale Excavating Company, Inc.