How to fix a broken company culture

A broken, toxic or negative company culture doesn’t develop overnight.

Rushed hires, poor leadership, dictatorial management techniques and lousy working conditions are among the factors that make it difficult for an organization to grow and succeed. Unfortunately, a broken culture can perpetuate a downward spiral that’s difficult to recover from—unless you’re willing to aggressively address underlying issues and correct course.

Start with these four steps:

1. Hold leaders—and yourself—accountable. 

Company culture problems don’t arise because of one entry-level employee’s bad attitude. Culture starts at the top, which means leaders should be held accountable.

Execs set the tone and direction for the business. Their hires should reflect the values they claim to hold dear—and their behavior should match what they preach.

If your company culture has soured during your watch, consider how you can change and become a better leader. Before pointing fingers elsewhere, look in the mirror.

Be honest about what’s curtailing your development, and take steps to improve your weaknesses. Reassess how you lead, listen and gather feedback.