Page 43 - F1 - AB Integrated Workbook STUDENT 2018-19

Organisational culture in business

Defining organisational culture

1.1 Definition

There are many definitions of corporate culture. These include:

‘The specific collection of values and norms that are shared by people
and groups in an organisation and that control the way they interact with
each other and with stakeholders outside the organisation.’
Hill and Jones

The way we do things around here.’
Handy

1.2 Components of culture

 A set of norms – these guide people’s behaviour, suggesting what is or is not
appropriate e.g. informal dress codes

 Symbols or symbolic action – e.g. rituals such as buying the office a cake on
your birthday

 Shared values and beliefs – these underlie the culture by identifying what is
important e.g. a belief in the importance of people as individuals

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