When it comes to building a corporate culture, nonprofits have some built-in advantages. By definition, they’re built around a mission, meaning most people who join them will have similar values. However, that doesn’t mean they can afford to neglect their culture; placing your mission and your employees’ needs front and center should be a constant and intentional act. Here are some things to consider when you’re thinking about your corporate culture:
Building transparency, both ways
Nonprofits are used to thinking about transparency when they’re dealing with their donors but don’t always practice transparency internally. But it’s important for rank-and-file employees to have a clear conception of the company’s mission and goals. That’s how they’ll know how their own role works toward these goals. And just as employees want to know what their managers are working toward, it’s important for managers to know about their employees’ work, including their problems and concerns.
Define your mission
It may seem obvious to you, as a manager, what your nonprofit’s mission is. But honing your elevator pitch is about more than attracting donors. For one thing, it can prevent mission creep — keeping the company from taking on tasks that are at odds with its goals. Your mission is also your best tool for attracting and retaining the right employees. People will want to work for you when they understand and agree with your goals.
Put your employees first
With that being said, you shouldn’t count on your mission to keep your employees happy and fulfilled. People who work for nonprofits expect to make certain sacrifices, like taking a lower salary and getting fewer benefits, but that doesn’t mean you should take your staff for granted. One way to focus on their development is by setting up regular meetings to discuss their professional goals. Celebrate wins, discuss concerns and recognize people who exemplify the culture you’re trying to create. A larger for-profit corporation may be able to provide better benefits, but your advantage is that employees won’t feel lost in the shuffle.
A corporate culture is not something you should take for granted. Building it should be an active process. With a goal in mind, you can keep your company on the right course and keep your employees feeling engaged and motivated.
To learn more about how our firm can serve your nonprofit organization, don’t hesitate to contact Kathy Corcoran at (302) 254-8240.
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