The concept of making workplaces more than a monotonous drudgery of paperwork and deadlines seems to be a fairly new idea. Workplace etiquette and ideology in the United States has changed so much — thanks to countless laws and reforms by workers unions — the landscape of the modern business looks a whole lot different than it did a hundred years ago. Understandably, having a little fun in the workplace and actually treating your employees with the dignity and respect they deserve has been proven to convince them to work harder than if you were to staff your office with nothing but hostile taskmasters. Company culture: the secret to your success.

The sooner you establish a positive company culture, the sooner your team of employees can grow closer and gain a sense of pride for your particular brand. When people embrace the workplace, when they agree with the mantra behind what they do, they can hold their heads high and see a greater meaning in the work they do — whether they’re selling staplers or digging wells. But get it in writing: a tangible company ideology or mission statement for your work. Do that, and your business will quickly grow from a means to an end for your employees into something they look forward to participating in.

Happier employees are going to stick by you. Establishing a culture doesn’t just mean sporting casual Fridays once a month. It means treating your employees like fellow human beings. After all, without them the company wouldn’t be operating at the level it is. Your appreciation for those in your employ can take many forms, but the basics should feature the opportunity to share and celebrate successes and maybe a few treats in the break room that show your staff that you as the business owner care about them in a practical way. No two business cultures are the same, and that’s the beauty of it. Sit down, have a chat with your associates, and figure out what you want your workplace to look like. That will be the foundation of your company culture.