Unwritten Rules for Decoding Workplace Culture with Dr. Anna Kallschmidt

Psych in Business

In this episode of the Psych in Business podcast, Dr. Ernest Wayde hosts a conversation with Dr. Anna Kallschmidt, an expert on organizational culture and the unwritten rules of work. Dr. Kallschmidt discusses her research and experiences in various sectors, including the federal government, local government, and private companies, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing cultural nuances in the workplace.

Dr. Kallschmidt shares her journey from a small town in North Florida to become a prominent figure in organizational culture research. With diverse professional experiences across different regions and roles, Dr. Kallschmidt emphasizes the significance of acknowledging one's cultural background and its influence on workplace interactions.

The episode highlights the concept of organizational culture, stressing the importance of recognizing and addressing the unwritten rules that exist within different workplace environments. Dr. Anna Kallschmidt introduces the idea that culture is not just an abstract concept but the environment in which organizations operate, likening it to the water we swim in rather than a distant iceberg.

Key Takeaways:

• Cultural Awareness: Understanding that what is perceived as normal in one's culture may differ significantly in another, leading to potential conflicts in the workplace.

• Intentional Culture Development: Moving beyond stated cultural ideals to actionable steps that support and reinforce desired cultural behaviors within an organization.

• Human Behavior and Culture: Recognizing that culture is shaped by agreed-upon behaviors and norms and leaders must be aware of their own cultural biases to effectively lead diverse teams.

• Authenticity and Vulnerability: Emphasizing the need for leaders to be authentic and open to feedback, fostering trust and a genuine understanding of their team's cultural dynamics.

• Continuous Learning: Highlighting the importance of creating an environment that truly supports continuous learning and innovation, rather than just paying lip service to these ideals.

To learn more about Dr. Kallschmidt and access resources for organizational culture development, visit her website: https://www.drkallschmidt.com