Ways You Can Help Build a Positive Work Culture as an Employee
No one likes working in a toxic work environment. Toxic environments can have a significant negative impact on your mental, emotional, and even physical health. Furthermore, as noted in a 2023 article published by the American Psychological Association, toxic work environments often lead to “high absenteeism, low productivity, and soaring turnover.”[1]
While we'd all love to work in a positive, supportive environment, sometimes we find ourselves in toxic or negative spaces. If leaving for a healthier environment isn’t an option, you can feel stuck. However, there are things you can do to help foster a more positive culture at work — even if it starts with just one person: you.
Here are ways you can promote a positive work culture:
Embrace a Supportive Environment
A supportive work environment is one where an employee is allowed to make a mistake and be given a chance to recover.
I used to work as a paralegal for a very talented and incredibly busy trial attorney. One of my responsibilities was to gather and pack the materials he needed for meetings. I’ll never forget one meeting in particular. I sent him out of town without realizing a significant part of the materials he needed was still sitting in the office.
I felt sick to my stomach when I made the call to tell him my mistake. Over and over, I apologized. I’ll never forget his reply: “Leah, when I stop making mistakes, then I’ll start focusing on yours.” That moment changed my perspective of mistakes.
In a positive work culture, employees are encouraged to learn and grow from them instead of being paralyzed by the fear of failure. Whether you’re a supervisor, a team lead, or a member of staff, you can foster a culture of growth and trust when you show understanding and compassion when mistakes happen.
Be an Active Listener
Genuinely listening to your colleagues creates stronger relationships and encourages collaboration.
It also means offering a safe space for open communication. When your colleagues know they can trust you to keep things confidential, they’re more likely to share their ideas, which leads to a more collaborative, positive environment.
So, make an effort to listen without interrupting, and avoid using what they say against them. Maintain strong eye contact, nod, and paraphrase to confirm you understand. Put your phone down and minimize your email window. This will help you stay present in the conversation, showing you’re paying attention and actively processing the conversation.
Be Willing to Help Out
We’ve all been buried under work before — whether it's a stack of paperwork or a limitless email inbox. A coworker who offers to “take something off your plate” can be a lifesaver during times like these.
Pay it forward by helping your coworkers. If someone is struggling or overwhelmed, offer to support them in some way. Take on an extra task, offer resources or advice. It’s a great way to build camaraderie. Plus, it strengthens the entire team.
Of course, the goal isn’t to take on someone’s work permanently. If you find them constantly buried under work or asking for help, it may be worth encouraging them to have a conversation with their manager about whether the workload is reasonable.
Give a “Shout Out”
According to a 2022 survey by Bonusly, “65% of employees say they’d be more likely to stay at a job with an unappreciative manager if their coworkers still recognized their work.”[2] Public recognition of someone's hard work not only boosts their morale but it also helps foster a culture of respect.
Many workplaces have a formal shout-out system, where you can recognize a coworker’s efforts publicly. In some cases, it’s a matter of sending an email or using online platforms like Slack or an internal intranet.
If your company doesn’t have this in place, consider suggesting it. You can also take matters into your own hands by taking a moment during a team meeting to acknowledge someone else’s contributions. This can go a long way in boosting morale.
Just be sure to keep the acknowledgement short and to the point – no one likes long-winded speeches!
Send “Thank You” Notes
You might think writing a thank you note is outdated, but a simple, handwritten (or even digital) note of appreciation can have a big impact. It shows your colleagues you see and value their efforts. It can brighten their day and strengthen relationships in the workplace.
When you write your note, make sure it’s personal and specific, rather than generic. Mention exactly what you appreciated about their efforts. It doesn’t have to be long or perfect; authenticity is what counts.
Leave the note in their workspace after hours or send it when they’ve already gone home — either way, they’ll be pleasantly surprised. It’s a great way to start the next day, don’t you think?
Lighten the Mood with Humor
As the saying goes, “Laughter is the best medicine.” A little humor can go a long way in diffusing stress and tension in the workplace.
Whether it’s a lighthearted joke, a meme shared in the group chat, or participating in a fun team-building activity, humor can help create a more enjoyable, positive atmosphere — just be sure to keep it appropriate for the workplace. When used well, it can lighten the mood and bring everyone closer together.
Conclusion
Building a positive work culture doesn't always require a big organizational overhaul. Sometimes, it starts with small, individual actions that create a ripple effect.
Try one — or all — of these strategies, and see the positive impact it has on you and your co-workers. Though your work environment won’t ever be perfect, you’ll be taking steps towards creating one everyone can enjoy.
Referenced Articles
American Psychological Association. Toxic Workplaces Leave Employees Sick, Scared, and Looking for an Exit. How to Combat Unhealthy Conditions.
Bonusly. Survey Says: Appreciation Matters More Than You Think.
Leah Hird is the career and money editor for Hope Magazine. She also freelances as a ghostwriter, specializing in crafting engaging marketing content for women-led businesses. You can follow her on LinkedIn.