Why Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast: Unpacking the Power of Workplace Culture

Culture is a term that has become all too familiar in today’s workplace. It refers to the shared beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors of a group of people, and it plays a big role in shaping the direction and success of an organization. Many successful business leaders have boasted that culture is what fuels their companies, and that it eats strategy for breakfast.

But what exactly is meant by this phrase, and why is culture so important in the workplace? To answer this question, we must first understand what is meant by culture and examine its power in the workplace.

There’s no doubt that a well-crafted strategy is important for any organization. A clear direction and set of goals can help steer a company towards success. However, even the most brilliant strategy will fall short if it is not supported by a strong culture. A company’s culture shapes its behavior, and thus determines whether its strategy can be fully implemented and realized.

For example, take an organization with a well-planned strategy to be innovative and agile. If the company’s culture is hierarchical and risk-averse, employees may not feel empowered to take the kinds of risks necessary to make innovation a reality. In such a case, the strategy may be doomed to fail.

On the other hand, if an organization’s culture fosters collaboration, open communication, and a willingness to try new things, it may be able to thrive even without a formal strategy in place. This is because the employees will naturally be inclined to work together towards the company’s goals, adapting and adjusting as needed to meet changing circumstances.

In essence, culture is like the soil that nourishes the roots. Without good soil, the plant will struggle or even die, no matter how much sunlight or water it receives. Likewise, without a healthy culture, no amount of strategy will enable an organization to reach its full potential.

Another important aspect of workplace culture is that it helps attract and retain top talent. Companies with a strong culture can create a sense of community and purpose that goes beyond just getting a paycheck. This can be particularly important for younger generations who often prioritize work-life balance, social responsibility, and a sense of fulfillment in their careers.

In summary, culture is an essential component of a successful workplace. It shapes behavior, influences decision-making, and can be the difference between thriving and failing. While a sound strategy is important, it must be supported by a strong and healthy culture to reach its full potential. Companies that recognize this fact and invest in building a positive culture will be more likely to succeed in the long run.