How to Create a Culture That Attracts and Keeps Great People
It’s not about perks — it’s about people, purpose, and consistency.
Culture is more than Friday drinks and a ping-pong table. It’s how your team works together, how decisions are made, how people feel showing up to work every day — and for new hires, it’s often the difference between sticking around or moving on.
Whether you’re hiring your first team member or growing a busy business, creating a workplace culture that genuinely attracts and retains people doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to be intentional.
Here are five ways to build a culture that new hires are excited to be part of — and stay part of.
1. Start with values — and actually use them
Company values shouldn’t just live on the wall or website. They should guide the way your team communicates, makes decisions, handles challenges, and celebrates wins.
Tip: Share your values during onboarding and give real examples of how they show up day-to-day. Encourage your team to hold each other (and you) accountable to them.
2. Create clarity, not just vibes
A strong culture isn’t built on "good energy" alone. People thrive when they understand what’s expected, where they fit, and what success looks like in their role.
Tip: Use position descriptions, onboarding plans, and regular check-ins to create structure and reduce ambiguity — especially for new starters.
3. Model the culture you want to see
Leaders are culture. If you want a team that communicates openly, gives feedback respectfully, and owns their work — you need to model those behaviours consistently.
Tip: Pay attention to how you show up, especially in moments of pressure. Your actions signal what’s truly valued in your workplace, more than any policy ever could.
4. Prioritise people, not just productivity
If your team feels disposable, they won’t stick around. Today’s workforce is looking for meaning, growth, flexibility, and respect — not just a payslip.
Tip: Offer support through wellbeing check-ins, flexible working arrangements, clear career pathways, and feedback loops that go both ways.
5. Make it consistent from the start
Culture doesn’t begin at week 4 — it starts the moment someone sees your job ad. Make sure your onboarding, leadership, and daily practices align with the kind of team you say you are.
Tip: Review your hiring and onboarding processes. Are they warm, clear, inclusive, and aligned with your values? If not, that’s your culture telling you where to improve.
Final thoughts
A great workplace culture doesn’t mean being perfect — it means being intentional. By showing up consistently, communicating clearly, and putting people at the centre of your business, you’ll create a culture that attracts great talent and helps them thrive.
Looking for practical support to shape your team culture?
👉 Download our free Ultimate Onboarding Guide or get in touch to chat about how we can support you.