In the debt recovery industry, the work can be demanding and the challenges intense. At Viking Client Services, fostering a strong, positive company culture is essential in helping us maintain balance. It's not just about creating an environment where people can work; it's about building a community where employees feel connected, supported, and motivated.
Whether you're a team leader or a team member, enhancing company culture and getting to know your coworkers will lead to a more engaged, connected, and satisfied team.
1. Encourage Open Communication
A culture of open communication is the foundation of a strong team. Encourage your colleagues to share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns without fear of judgment. When everyone feels heard, it builds trust and strengthens relationships. Regular team meetings, feedback sessions, and one-on-one check-ins can help facilitate this open dialogue.
Tip: Be proactive in seeking and providing feedback, and when you receive it, show appreciation and take action where necessary. This not only improves processes but also demonstrates that you value your coworkers' opinions.
2. Embrace Authenticity
Authenticity is key to building trust and a strong company culture. Encourage team members to bring their whole selves to work, including their quirks, passions, and unique perspectives. Additionally, create opportunities for people to share about their personal lives, whether during team meetings, weekly stand-ups, or collaborative projects. When employees get to be their full selves, they’re more likely to be engaged, creative, and committed to the company’s success.
Tip: Share real photos, stories, and experiences from employees on your internal platforms or social media. This boosts morale, encourages relationship-building, and showcases your company culture to the outside world.
3. Celebrate Successes Together
Recognizing and celebrating achievements, whether big or small, boosts morale and reinforces a positive culture. When a team member hits a milestone or a project is successfully completed, take the time to acknowledge it. Celebrations don't need to be over-the-top—sometimes, a simple acknowledgement or team shoutout can make a significant impact.
Tip: Create a shared space, like a bulletin board or an online channel, where team members can post shoutouts or recognize each other’s contributions.
4. Support Work-Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for both personal well-being and a thriving team environment. Encourage your coworkers to set boundaries and prioritize time for themselves outside of work. Supporting each other in this effort, whether through flexible work arrangements or informal team activities like lunches and happy hours, will foster connection and strengthen the team. By creating a culture that values both personal time and team development, you can ensure that everyone feels balanced, supported, and engaged.
Tip: Lead by example and prioritize both— take advantage of opportunities to connect as people and opportunities to disconnect from the job itself.
5. Foster Inclusivity and Diversity
An inclusive workplace where diversity is valued is essential for a positive company culture. Encourage an environment where all voices are heard and respected, and where differences are seen as strengths. This looks like seeking out different perspectives, creating spaces where everyone feels they belong, and calling out inappropriate behavior.
Tip: Consider forming an inclusivity committee or hosting discussions on diversity topics to keep these values at the forefront of your company culture.
6. Engage in Continuous Learning
Promote a culture of learning where team members are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. Offer opportunities for skill development, knowledge sharing, and ongoing improvement. When employees feel they are learning and growing, they are more likely to be engaged and invested in their work.
Tip: Consider organizing lunch-and-learn sessions where team members can teach each other new skills or learn insights from guest speakers.
7. Create a Supportive Environment
A supportive work environment is one where team members look out for each other. Whether it’s offering help on a project, lending a listening ear, or simply checking in on a colleague, these small acts of kindness go a long way in building a strong team culture. Remember, it's not just about getting the job done—it's about doing it together.
Tip: Encourage an onboarding system where new employees are paired with more experienced team members who can offer guidance and support as they acclimate to the company.
Building a positive company culture and getting to know your coworkers is not just about improving the work environment—it's about creating a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and motivated to contribute. By fostering open communication, embracing authenticity, and supporting employees’ work-life balance, you can help build a workplace where everyone thrives.