Company culture is crucial to any organisation’s success, and while leadership sets the tone, both permanent employees and contract workers significantly shape and sustain it. Contractors, particularly in the built environment sector, whether engineers or technical specialists, can play an essential role in influencing a positive work atmosphere, especially in project-based settings. Their unique skills and fresh perspectives can help cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration.
The Importance of a Unified Culture in the Built Environment Sector
A strong, positive culture isn’tjust good for permanent staff, it directly impacts contract workers as well. In industries like highways, buildings, and architecture, where external expertise is frequently brought in, contractors thrive when the culture is welcoming and collaborative. Companies with a healthy culture retain talent more easily, as contractors are more likely to return for future projects or recommend the company to other specialists.
Specialist contract workers often deliver technical insights that enhance the company’s innovation and problem-solving abilities, especially in areas like building surveying or environmental consultancy. Their influence is integral to fostering a culture of excellence and learning.
Here’s how you, regardless of your employment status, can contribute to a strong and cohesive company culture:
1. Build Relationships Across Roles
Take the time to connect with your colleagues, whether they're permanent staff or contractors. Building personal relationships creates a sense of belonging and fosters collaboration, which is essential in sectors like infrastructure and engineering. The more integrated the team, the better the project outcomes.
2. Recognise and Celebrate Contributions
Recognising achievements, no matter how small, goes a long way in fostering an inclusive culture. Celebrate milestones for both permanent staff and contractors to ensure everyone feels valued and respected.
Success and recognition comes in many forms from the ad hoc small comment made at desk or in a meeting, to more formal processes you may have in place. Recognition is very important in project-based industries, where both temporary and long-term staff must work in harmony. Acknowledging everyone’s contributions, regardless of their role, builds mutual respect and ensures that contract workers feel valued for their expertise, improving their integration into the company culture.
3. Promote Positivity and Problem-Solving
Maintain a positive attitude and focus on finding solutions during challenges. Contractors often bring fresh perspectives that can drive innovation, so if you are a permanent employee, embrace this fresh perspective and see it as a conduit to innovation. By embracing a solution-oriented approach, you contribute to a productive and supportive environment.
4. Model Company Values, Even as a Contractor
Set a good example whether you are the team leader or the newest recruit, and whether you’re a permanent employee or a contractor. Aligning yourself and modelling behaviours that are true to the company values helps unify the team. By upholding these values, you foster a cohesive culture, ensuring consistency and collaboration across all roles. Commitment to the values can bind teams together to reinforce the shared purpose of delivering a project.
