“I have an open-door policy, you’re always welcome.” But is your team welcome?
Sitting behind a desk in a corner office, or an office in general doesn’t always feel like an invitation. Physical openness and emotional openness aren’t the same thing. True accessibility is about presence, being seen, heard, and available.
It’s comfortable to stay in the office, as it’s familiar, quiet, and yours. However, comfort zones aren’t where you build connection. When you are out of your office, you change more than your surroundings. You change the culture.
When leaders and team members make themselves visible and present in everyday spaces (i.e sitting in a beanbag, working in a conference room, or joining in the various conversations in the office) something shifts. Walls come down, curiosity goes up, and communication starts to flow more naturally. That’s culture.
Company culture isn’t built through slogans, handbooks, or monthly meetings. It’s built in the small moments. Moments where people feel safe enough to ask a question, admit a mistake, or share an idea. Moments that are shared amongst of group of people that allows us to connect, not because we “have to”.
Those simple, casual interactions are the threads that hold teams together. They build trust, encourage transparency, and help ideas flow. Over time, that approachability becomes a part of the culture.
The first time I decided to sit in the beanbag instead of my office, I didn’t think much of it. I just wanted a change of scenery, tired of the same old four walls. But I started to notice how the energy changed and how much easier it was for me and my team to connect. Conversations felt lighter, and collaboration became an important aspect of the everyday. Over time the relationships with my team shifted and I was a part of the team, not apart from it.
What else did I witness? People further up in management noticed. When they visited the office, I’m sure they saw the difference of engagement and energy. A few of them even tried it themselves and continue to when they visit. They sat in the beanbag, met the team where they were and connected in ways they hadn’t before.
All of that started with one small moment, one where everyone feels welcome to take a
seat. Even if it is in a beanbag.
Article By: Holly Northern, Technology Service Manager