What does organizational culture primarily consist of?

Organizational culture fundamentally consists of the shared beliefs, values, and norms that shape how members of the organization interact with one another and approach their work. These shared beliefs are critical because they influence decision-making processes, determine how problems are addressed, and help to manage internal challenges and anxieties that may arise within the organization.

The emphasis on shared beliefs highlights the importance of collective understanding and agreement among team members on how to behave and respond to various situations. This cohesive framework encourages a sense of belonging and aligns individual actions with the organization's goals.

While policies, social interactions, and formal structures are part of organizational dynamics, they are not the essence of culture itself. Documented policies and guidelines can reflect the culture but do not alone constitute it. Similarly, social interactions and informal networks can emerge from the underlying culture but are not its core component. Formal hierarchies and positions provide the organizational structure but do not embody the shared values and beliefs that truly define the culture. Therefore, the focus on shared beliefs in solving problems and addressing anxiety encapsulates the essence of what organizational culture is about.