CWHP-P Reflection: Unit WHPP01

I am sharing Graham Lowe’s 2006 article, Trust is Tops, as it has been one of my ‘go-to’ pieces in educating leaders about the power and influence they have in creating a healthy, high-performing culture. It demonstrates that culture, “the way we do things around here”, is the foundation of a healthy workplace. It is as powerful, inspirational, and relevant to me today as it was over 15 years ago when I first read it.

In a positive culture, employees enjoy coming to work, feel valued and supported, have pride in the work they do, and understand their contributions to fulfilling the organizational vision. The leadership practices that ultimately create and foster such a culture include setting the example; inspiring a vision for the future; enlisting others; ensuring everyone has a voice; searching for opportunities; encouraging risk-taking; fostering collaboration; empowering and strengthening employees; recognizing all contributions; celebrating accomplishments; and, most importantly to me, demonstrating genuine care and concern about the wellbeing of their employees.

Leaders who demonstrate these qualities build trusting relationships in the workplace. If culture is the foundation of a healthy, high-performing workplace, trust is the bedrock that holds the culture together. Ultimately, employees trust leaders who genuinely care about their wellbeing. While creating a ‘great place to work’ might seem like a lofty goal, it really does start with investing time and effort into building relationships.