Over 79% of employees with autonomy at work report higher levels of engagement at work compared to those who don’t. Modern workers seek a more adaptable and manageable schedule because it increases their productivity and happiness at work. A freedom-centric culture is the talk of the town because it has become necessary, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
So, what exactly does freedom-centric culture mean?
A freedom-centric culture works on the principle of providing freedom to work, act, and be accountable for the duties and objectives of an individual. This degree of authority and independence is perfect for allowing workers to exercise their own judgment without having their decisions constantly monitored by their line managers. This culture emerges gradually over time and is built on trust and shared interests in order to achieve a common objective.
Advantages of Freedom-Centric Culture
Innovation-driven creative workforce
Harvard University professor Teresa Amabile highlighted how businesses can stifle creativity. In the article, she talks about how allowing employees some freedom can help them learn how to handle difficult circumstances. When workers exercise autonomy in their daily tasks, innovative solutions surface and produce fantastic results in trying circumstances. Innovation is very likely to become the team’s guiding principle in an environment where freedom is prioritized.
High levels of morale and satisfaction
When given a lot of freedom at work, employees are more likely to feel in control of their lives even in a professional setting, which makes them well-rounded, content, and happy. According to a Said Business School study, contented employees are 13% more productive, making happiness a crucial component of a flourishing culture. A freedom-centered culture ensures that workers are happier when reporting to work each day, making better decisions, and achieving workplace goals.
Powers up the retention rate
According to a recent McKinsey study, more than 40% of participants are considering leaving their current jobs in the upcoming three to six months. This clarifies how a sizable portion of the workforce is unhappy at work for a variety of reasons. Employee retention rates can gradually increase as a result of employees feeling heard and surrounded by a culture that inspires them to achieve excellence. According to a Deloitte survey, company culture is a key factor in luring and keeping top talent because it is important for both professional and personal success.
A team that takes accountability
According to a Gallup study, only 30% of employees agree that their managers include them in goal-setting meetings or conversations. The same report claims that these workers will be 3.6 times more likely to be engaged at work. A freedom-centric culture emphasizes collaboration, performance management, employee empowerment, and clear expectations in order to increase employees’ accountability and responsibility for their primary duties.
How to Build a Freedom-centric Culture
It is the responsibility of the leaders and managers to build a freedom-centric culture. While it is not a one-day activity, here are a few best practices to start building such a culture.
Don’t be afraid to delegate and communicate
Freedom comes right from the top of the hierarchy and can’t be exercised by others if the culture doesn’t allow the same. As leaders, it is crucial to learn the art of delegation and to demonstrate trust in the team. This is only possible with the right attitude and clear communication of the requirements. The secret to creating a culture that values freedom and never abuses it is effective communication.
Empower your employees
One of the best ways to create and practice a culture that values freedom is by giving employees the freedom to make their own decisions and refraining from micromanaging them. Employees can feel engaged and empowered at work in a number of ways, including open communication, frequent feedback sessions, and brainstorming.
Show trust and offer support
Only when management has total faith in their workers can empowerment take place. The end result must receive undivided attention, not other considerations, or obstacles, to build a freedom-centric culture. By creating a positive work environment and supporting creativity and innovation, a great culture that offers support and trust can be created.
Offer flexibility to thrive
According to a survey, over 79% of businesses have struggled to retain top talent because of rigid work schedules and little to no flexibility of any sort. You need the ability to adapt in order to cultivate a strong workforce of individuals who are passionate about their work and enjoy challenges. To create a freedom-centric culture, a leader must provide flexible work schedules, remote working, paid time off, and other such non-monetary flexible options.
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