Culture by Design Seminar with Arcadia Consulting in Hong Kong

On the 25th of October 2017, Elliott Scott HR held an interactive workshop with Arcadia Consulting in Hong Kong.

In February this year, our London office launched the event series, and this seminar marks the fourth in the series and the first in Asia. Matt Lyon, Arcadia’s Head of Consulting, presented on ‘Culture by Design’ exploring techniques to develop a culture which aligns to a company’s values and goals. Objectives for growth, innovation and disruption are often attempted through financial investment when they can be met through changing behaviours. Leading to a more sustainable and organic evolution.

Matt Lyon shared some key points to consider to evolve company culture: Examination: Many processes are outdated and remain in organisations as an unwanted legacy. Often these are rewarded, and like a lot of bad habits can be very difficult to break. Making a conscious effort to identify which ones can be changed begins the change process. Aspiration: Broadly speaking there are 4 types of organisational cultures: family-like and nurturing, entrepreneurial and innovative, results-focused and competitive, and structured and controlled. To shift culture, you may have to compromise in one to gain in another.

For example if a ‘Control’ company wants to foster a more innovative culture then they have to relinquish processes which inhibit creativity. Design: Once you’ve examined your organisation’s culture and worked out what you want it look like, you have to then align the whole company from top to bottom, on a group and individual level. At group level the story you want to tell and the cultural expectations need to be clear. At an individual level the behaviours need to be instilled. Look at what knowledge, skills and processes your employees need. Both the narrative and the behaviours of an organisation need to be changed to enforce a positive company culture and avoid slipping back into old ways. It’s clear that through the planning and development process of a company’s culture, the focus on people is key.

Your staff are ambassadors both inside and outside the business, and are responsible for both the perception and in reality its success. After an engaging seminar enjoyed by all, we continued discussions over drinks and canapés.

If you would be interested in attending any of our future events, follow us on LinkedIn and keep an eye on our events page.