Your team culture is more than a label and most importantly effected by many more factors than you think. Consider teams that identify as “transparent”, “open”, or “diversified”. These labels, while descriptive, may not always capture the essence of the actual team dynamics.
This concept of labeling brought to mind the three major cities I’ve had the privilege to call home:
I don’t need to tell you the name of these cities because those labels speak for themselves. But are they are true?
Don’t get me wrong I love these cities. But the point is, labels don’t mean anything they are as easy to take off as they are to put on.
Team culture is an evolving entity, not just a static set of characteristics. It’s shaped by every interaction, decision, and individual within the team. Here are some additional aspects to consider:
In the end, team culture, much like the essence of a city, is not just about the labels we attach to it. It’s about the lived experiences, the daily interactions, and the collective values that emerge over time. It’s better to strive for cultures that are not just labels on a wall but living, breathing ecosystems that grow and evolve with us.
Instead we should build teams where inclusivity, adaptability, and bravery are not just buzzwords, but realities we cultivate through our actions and decisions. Remember, a label is only as meaningful as the truth it represents.