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The Blueprint to Creating a Thriving Company Culture

The Blueprint to Creating a Thriving Company Culture | Madison+Main Blog

Written by: Robyn Quarles

The Importance of Company Culture

Behind every logo is a talented, dedicated, hardworking group with a common goal: to make the best out of each day. Other than having an awesome product to sell or service to provide, how can companies make sure their people have a great day every day (or, at least most days)? The answer: having a strong company culture.

What is company culture? It’s more than just a ping-pong table in the office or half-day Fridays. It’s the combination of leadership, core values, and employee well-being that create the overall atmosphere of your company. But what does a “thriving company culture” actually look like? And more importantly, how do you build one (without putting the cult in culture)?

Luckily, I can speak from experience on this one! Here’s your blueprint for creating a culture where employees don’t just show up—they thrive.

Define Core Values

To quote from the greatest film of all time, School of Rock, “The first thing you do when you start a band is talk about your influences. That’s how you figure out what kind of band you want to be. So, who do you like?”

Now, replace “band” with “company.” Every company has a mission, and with that mission come core values that align with it. 

For example, at Madison+Main, our mission is ​​to fuel the growth of small and mid-size companies, turbocharge success for all, and celebrate the wins along the way. With innovative marketing strategies, bold creativity, and strong partnerships, we help emerging companies and challenger brands gain more exposure, skyrocket revenue, and win.

Our values to help fuel our mission:

  • Fearless creativity
  • Clear communication
  • An intentional approach
  • Respectful candor
  • Unwavering transparency
  • Social and socially conscious
  • Savoring success

So how do you define your company’s values? The trick is to make them authentic. Don’t slap “innovation” and “integrity” on the wall unless they genuinely reflect what your company stands for. Values should be relatable, actionable, and part of the everyday language at work — not just SEO keywords.

    Lead By Example

    Leadership can make or break company culture. If your leadership isn’t walking the talk, it doesn’t matter what your values are, no one’s buying in. Leaders should embody the culture they want to create. This means being transparent, approachable, and consistent.

    Lucky for us, our Madam President Molly Whitfield and Founder/Chief Ideas Officer Dave Saunders, lead by example everyday. Here are some ways to make sure your employees aren’t only successful, they’re thriving:

    Tying in perfectly to our many core values of savoring success, celebrating wins, both big and small, shows your people that their hardwork and dedication don’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. At Madison+Main, part of our weekly routine is to award a Madison+Main-iac with an “Above + Beyond,” shining a light on team members who, well, go above and beyond for the team or clients.

    • Keep lines of communication open
      • Employees should feel like their voices are heard, whether that’s through regular feedback sessions, anonymous surveys, or just having an open-door policy.
    • Prioritize your people
      • Employees aren’t resources. They’re people. Focus on their well-being and work-life balance. Flexible schedules, mental health days, or just being understanding when life happens can go a long way.
    • Diversity and inclusion aren’t optional
      • A thriving culture is one where everyone feels welcome and respected, regardless of their background or perspective. Foster a workplace where diverse ideas and experiences are celebrated, and where everyone feels like they belong.
    • Teamwork makes the dream work
      • Encourage your team to collaborate! The outcome: fresh ideas and perspectives, stronger means of problem solving, and of course, thoughtful team bonding. It really does make a difference!
    • Learning never stops
      • Investing in your people isn’t just about paying their salary and healthcare. It involves nurturing their growth and giving them opportunities to expand their skill sets and knowledge. 
    • Rewards and recognition go a long way
      • Tying in perfectly to our many core values of savoring success, celebrating wins, both big and small, shows your people that their hardwork and dedication don’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. At Madison+Main, part of our weekly routine is to award a Madison+Main-iac with an “Above + Beyond,” shining a light on team members who, well, go above and beyond for the team or clients. 

      Company Culture – An Ongoing Project

      Company culture isn’t a “set it and forget it” thing. Think of it as a Pokemon: it evolves as your company grows and changes. Regularly check in with your team, gather feedback, and make adjustments as necessary. 

        Strong Company Culture, Stronger Team

        At the end of the day, a thriving company culture isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a need-to-have. It helps fuel your company’s success! It keeps your team happy and engaged and leads to attracting more talent. Be the company that people want to work for AND work with.

        We’re always here to help with your marketing needs — ready to work with a bold group with fearless creativity? Give us a call at (877) 623-6246!