What defines the collective values and behaviors that shape an organization?

Organizational culture is a concept that encompasses the shared values, beliefs, norms, and behaviors that characterize an organization. It serves as the social glue that binds the members of the organization together, influencing how they interact with one another and make decisions. This culture is often reflected in the corporate mission and employee engagement, but it is broader, encompassing the everyday practices and traditions that arise within the workplace.

While corporate mission outlines the company's purpose and direction, it does not capture the underlying values that guide behavior within the organization. Employee engagement focuses on how committed and motivated employees are towards their work and the organization, but it is also a product of the organizational culture rather than a definition of it. Strategic planning involves setting long-term goals and determining the actions needed to achieve them, which is a systematic approach but does not inherently define the values and behaviors of the organization itself.

In summary, organizational culture is fundamental in shaping how an organization operates and how its members perceive and interact with one another, making it the key component that defines the collective values and behaviors of an organization.