Q&A With Capella: What is Positive Organizational Culture?

Q. As a film producer, how did you become a positive organizational advocate?

C: My journey to becoming a positive organizational professional has genuinely felt like a return to my roots. I am always deeply fascinated by what enables people and teams to thrive at work. However, life graciously took me on an exciting detour - I spent two wonderful decades as a film producer, where I quickly discovered that every production is, at its core, an organization. Each film set is like a mini-world of organizational life, rich with its own culture, leadership dynamics, and unique challenge of bringing out the very best in every individual, often under pressure, tight deadlines, and budgets.

Through these invaluable experiences, I sharpened my skills in building trust, nurturing collaboration, and fostering environments where everyone felt empowered to deliver their best work. Over time, it became clear that my true passion lies in these very dynamics - helping teams excel, thrive, and achieve remarkable results together. Returning to the field of positive organizational scholarship feels like coming home; it beautifully intertwines my academic background in positive psychology and organizational dynamics with my practical experience in leading diverse teams. I’m absolutely thrilled to practice my passion every day, helping organizations and teams unlock potential, cultivate positivity, and create workplaces where everyone can truly flourish. This is, without a doubt, the perfect path for me!

Q. Why do you believe so strongly in Positive Cultures when organizations can be resistant to change?

C: I’m all about “growing the good”! Celebrating strengths and empowering everyone to reach their full potential. I truly believe in crafting spaces where individuals feel appreciated, energized, and inspired to shine in their work. By promoting uplifting experiences and nurturing a culture of trust and collaboration, I support organizations in optimizing their full potential, driving impactful results, and building work environments where everyone can thrive together.

Q. What is Positive Organizational Culture rooted in?

C: POC is deeply rooted in the inspiring field of Positive Organizational Scholarship (POS), brought to life by Drs. Jane Dutton, Kim Cameron, and Bob Quinn at the University of Michigan (GO BLUE!). This approach highlights the wonderful idea of harnessing strengths to unlock excellence within organizations. POS is based on the belief that goodness, resilience, and exceptional performance are not just lofty ideals but achievable outcomes that we can nurture and develop. By concentrating on generative forces - like human strengths, vitality, and thriving teams - POS empowers organizations to create high-performing cultures that go beyond mere problem-solving to cultivate sustainable growth and extraordinary results.

Q. How does POS differ from traditional organizational studies?

C: While traditional organizational studies often emphasize challenges like deficits, problem-solving, overcoming resistance, and managing uncertainty, POS shines a light on the uplifting aspects of organizations, such as flourishing, abundance, virtuousness, and positive deviance. It seeks to explore what nurtures the finest qualities of the human experience within organizations.

Q. What are the core domains or areas of inquiry within POS?

C: The core domains are:

• Virtuous processes and strengths such as compassion, resilience, and integrity.

• Upward spirals and positive change such as appreciative inquiry and positive emotions.

• Positive meanings and connections such as vitality and positive relationships.

• Institutional and structural enablers of positive outcomes.

Q. What is Positive Leadership?

C: Positive leaders really bring out the best in those around them. They focus on optimism, empowerment, and nurturing individual strengths. By creating environments where everyone feels valued, trusted, and inspired, they help boost engagement, spark innovation, and drive organizational success. Remember, each of us is a leader! We have endless opportunities to impact, influence, and inspire everyone we meet - let’s be multipliers for good!

Q. What are the main benefits of positive leadership for organizations?

C: Research shows that positive leadership leads to:

• Higher employee engagement and satisfaction

• Increased productivity - up to 50% higher

• Higher profitability - up to 29% more

• Lower turnover and absenteeism

• Greater resilience and adaptability

• Enhanced creativity and innovation

Q. What specific practices or behaviors define Positive Leadership?

C: Positive leaders typically:

• Focus on strengths and growth mindsets

• Encourage collaboration and innovation

• Practice gratitude and regular recognition

• Provide autonomy and support

• Lead by example and with authenticity

• Listen to their followership

• Inspires the best out of those around them

Q. How does a Positive Organizational Culture impact employee well-being and performance?

C: A positive culture, built on trust, respect, and collaboration, leads to:

• Greater job satisfaction

• Higher retention rates

• Improved motivation and productivity

• Better collaboration and teamwork

• Reduced stress and anxiety

Q. How does Positive Organizational Culture contribute to organizational resilience and adaptability?

C: Research shows that organizations that focus on positive practices are much better at navigating tough times. Resilience, a crucial attribute of POS, helps teams adjust to change and bounce back from setbacks with greater ease.

Q. Can Positive Organizational Culture improve business outcomes?

C: Absolutely! Organizations that embrace positive leadership and POS principles tend to consistently outshine their peers in key areas like profitability, customer satisfaction, retention, and innovation. What’s wonderful is that these outcomes are truly sustainable, as they’re built on the foundation of engaged employees and vibrant, positive cultures.

Q. What challenges might organizations face when implementing Positive Organizational Culture principles?

C: Common challenges include:

• Resistance to change from those accustomed to traditional leadership

• Balancing positivity with accountability and tough decisions

• Maintaining positivity during difficult times

• Ensuring authenticity and avoiding superficial “toxic positivity” 

Focusing on our strengths, nurturing positive relationships, and fostering a culture of trust and empowerment pave the way for organizations to thrive and achieve outstanding results for both individuals and the community as a whole.