5 Simple Ways to Build a Healthy Workplace Culture in Small Teams
Cathy Doherty 
Small business culture matters. Discover five practical ways to shape a healthy, respectful workplace — plus a video guide.
When we hear the word culture, it often brings to mind big corporations with glossy values on office walls. But here’s the truth: your small business already has a culture — whether you’ve designed it or not.
Culture isn’t posters or slogans. It’s the everyday behaviours your team shows when no one’s watching… and especially when you’re not around.
In this video, I share five practical ways any small business owner or people leader can nurture a healthy, respectful workplace culture — even if you only have a team of two or three.
Below, I’ve highlighted some of the key ideas to get you thinking.
1. Define Values That Mean Something
Don’t settle for vague terms like integrity or excellence. Get clear on what values really look like in day-to-day actions inside your business. Spell them out so your team understands and can model them.
2. Lead by Example
As a leader, your behaviour sets the tone. Calm and consistent? Your team mirrors that. Short-tempered or inconsistent? They’ll take that as the “real” standard. As I often say: leaders cast a long shadow.
3. Recognise the Good
Praise isn’t about handing out medals — it’s about fuelling connection. A genuine “thank you” in the moment goes a long way to reinforce the behaviours and values you want to see.
4. Don’t Tolerate Toxicity
One bad attitude can undo months of effort. If poor behaviour isn’t addressed, it spreads. What you don’t condemn, you condone — and your team will notice.
5. Build Cultural Routines
Make positive behaviours part of the rhythm of business life. Rituals, reminders, and repeated practices help embed culture until it becomes second nature.
These are just starting points. In the full video, I share real-life examples — including how one leader’s door-slamming habit soured their whole team without them even realising.
👉 Watch the full video here:
Ready to Strengthen Your Culture?
Building trust and positive behaviours at work doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right tools and support, it’s absolutely possible. If you’d like to go deeper:
- Explore my self-paced programmes to put these ideas into action.
- Join We Are Legacy Weavers, a community of leaders shaping healthy, lasting cultures.
- Or book a 1:1 call with me if you’d like tailored advice for your team.
I’m Cathy Doherty, The People Navigator®, and I’d love to help you weave a stronger culture in your workplace.