Understanding and influencing organisational systems and human behaviour is integral to developing a positive culture and healthy working environment.
It has become increasingly important for all people professionals to have a good understanding of organisation culture and behaviour. Historically, we may have expected Organisation Development (OD) specialists to hold this knowledge; however, whilst OD specialists certainly have a deep understanding of this in the work they do, all people professionals need a common understanding of the way culture and behaviour impact on people practices, and vice versa.
It’s particularly important that people professionals think in a systemic way: understanding how to align the different elements of the organisation’s system (for example, the values, the culture, structures, people practices and policies) to maximise the organisation’s performance.
This area of the Profession Map encompasses the knowledge needed to understand how organisations and people behave, and includes elements such as:
- How different leadership and people practices, along with ethical perspectives, impact on behaviour and culture.
- How giving people a meaningful voice enables people professionals to influence behaviour, unlock potential and shape organisational culture.
- How to enable high levels of people engagement and promote learning, and use the right approaches in different situations for individuals and teams.
- How to develop resilience within the organisation.
WCHG case study: Home is where the heart is
By making volunteering a strategic priority, Wythenshawe Community Housing Group has created a scheme that’s the beating heart of the community.
Culture and behaviour standards
Each standard progresses through four levels of impact. Which level do you most embody in your day-to-day work?
Next: Business acumen
Understanding your organisation, the commercial context and the wider world of work
CIPD Trust
Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.
Connect
and learn
We offer a range of ways to stay connected,from events to networking, workshops and webinars.
Explore our related content
Explore the CIPD’s point of view on responsible business, including recommendations for employers
Watch our webinar for an outline of the changes, guidance and advice from our panel of experts
Red flags, practical resources and action points for employers looking to foster ethical values in their organisations
Explores the role people professionals play in applying ethical values to organisational practice
Make the most of the Profession Map
The Profession Map is for everyone in our profession – individuals and teams, members and non-members. Learn more about the Profession Map and how you can use it.
Explore the purpose, values, knowledge and behaviours at the heart of our profession
How the international standard works for all people professionals
Find your current level of knowledge and experience and the next step in your career
Check out our FAQs on the Profession Map, membership, and qualifications