Why Does My Organization's Culture Feel Off — And How Can I Improve It?

Have you ever walked into your workplace and felt something was... off? Maybe communication feels strained, collaboration is sluggish, or your team’s energy seems low. If your organization’s culture isn’t quite clicking, you’re not alone — and the good news is, you can do something about it.

Understanding Culture vs. Climate

While often used interchangeably, culture and climate are distinct yet interconnected.

• Culture is the foundation — your organization’s deeply rooted values, beliefs, and norms. It's built over time and shapes how people behave, make decisions, and interact.
• Climate is the day-to-day atmosphere in your workplace — how employees feel about their environment right now. It reflects team dynamics, leadership behaviours, and communication styles.

A positive climate can help reinforce your desired culture, while a negative climate can reveal gaps between your stated values and reality. By improving your organizational climate, you create momentum for positive cultural change.

Why Does Culture Go Off Track?

Your organization’s culture isn’t just about mission statements and values posters on the wall — it’s the lived experience of your team. When those everyday experiences don’t align with your organization’s values, it creates tension that can impact morale, productivity, and even retention.

Here are a few common signs your culture might be out of sync:

• Confusion About Expectations: Employees are unsure what behaviours align with your values.
• Inconsistent Leadership: Some leaders model your values, while others unintentionally undermine them.
• Lack of Trust: Misalignment often breeds frustration, which can erode trust and collaboration.

How Can a Climate & Values Audit Help?

This is where Mosaic Engagement’s Climate & Values Audit comes in. Think of it as a reality check for your organization's culture — a structured process to reveal gaps between your stated values and your team’s lived experience.

Our approach includes:

• Climate & Values Assessment: We examine how your organization’s daily actions, decisions, and team dynamics align with your values.
• Employee & Collaborator Insights: Through surveys, conversations, and feedback tools, we gather honest input to understand how your culture is experienced — not just how it’s described.
• Gap Analysis & Action Plan: We highlight where your culture is thriving and where adjustments are needed, providing clear steps to realign your team.
• Practical Recommendations: From hiring practices to leadership behaviours, we offer actionable strategies that bring your values to life.

Building a Stronger, Values-Driven Workplace

A Culture & Values Audit doesn’t just identify problems — it helps you create a healthier, more engaged team. By addressing cultural misalignments, you foster better communication, improved collaboration, and a renewed sense of purpose.

If you’ve been feeling that your organization’s culture is out of sync, it may be time for a deeper look. Reach out to Mosaic Engagement to learn how a Climate & Values Audit can help you build a stronger, values-aligned team that thrives together.