Breaking Down Barriers: How Circle Practice Can Revolutionise Culture in the Workplace
Apr 29, 2023As someone who was able to experience the benefits of a global-scale Circle program at Snapchat, I want to talk about the importance of Circle practice for employees and why it can benefit a company in so many ways.
First, let me start by explaining what Circle practice is. Circle practice is a group communication method that encourages open and honest dialogue, active listening, and shared leadership. It is a process that helps to create a safe space for employees to speak openly and honestly with one another.
It's an ancient practice in a modern format where one person speaks at a time and everyone else listens.
Now, why is this important? Well, when employees feel heard and valued, they are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. They are also more likely to feel connected to their colleagues and to the organisation as a whole. This can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction.
As Margaret Wheatley famously said: 'You can't hate someone whose story you know'. One of the most powerful effects of having a regular Circle with team members, is that it scales empathy within an organisation. You can teach emotional intelligence all you want, but it has no purpose when people don't embody it. In Circle, empathy is implied.
In addition, circle practice can help to create a culture of trust within a team or organisation. When employees feel that they can share their thoughts and opinions without fear of judgment or retaliation, they are more likely to trust their colleagues and managers. This can lead to better teamwork, more effective problem-solving, and a more positive work environment.
Another benefit of circle practice is that it can help to foster a sense of community within an organisation. By creating a space for employees to connect on a deeper level, circle practice can help to break down barriers and promote a sense of belonging. This can be especially important for remote teams or for companies with a large number of employees.
Finally, circle practice can help to promote diversity and inclusion. By creating a space for all employees to share their perspectives and experiences, circle practice can help to ensure that everyone's voice is heard and that everyone feels included. Again; often tried and seldom embodied.
In conclusion, circle practice for employees can benefit an organisation in so many ways. It can help to create a safe space for employees to speak openly and honestly, foster a culture of trust, promote a sense of community, and promote diversity and inclusion. By investing in circle practice, companies can create a more engaged, motivated, and productive workforce.
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