5 Simple Ways to Build a Healthy Workplace Culture in Small Teams
Cathy Doherty 
Culture isn't a poster. 5 grounded steps to handle PMT behaviour and build a team people want to belong to. Watch or listen now.
Your Culture Isn't a Poster—It’s the Shadow You Cast
When we hear the word "culture," it’s easy to picture big city firms with glossy values plastered on office walls. Нere’s the reality for those of us running SMEs: your business already has a culture, whether you spent time designing it or just let it happen by accident.
Culture isn’t found in a slogan; it’s the hard graft of everyday behaviours. It’s what your team does when they think no one is looking, and it’s especially what they do when you aren't in the building. Think of it as your business’ personality—would you be happy to introduce that personality to your mother?
In my session linked below, I dig into how small teams—even just two or three people—can nurture a workplace that actually feels good to turn up to. I also share a cautionary tale about a leader whose door-slamming habit was doing more damage than any PMT (Predatory, Manipulative, Toxic) employee ever could.
You can catch the full breakdown in two ways:
👉 Watch the full video here:
- Listen to the audio here:
One Step at a Time: The Shadow Test
If you want to shift the needle on your culture today, start with this one reflection: The Leader’s Shadow.
As the person in charge, your team is constantly "reading the room" based on your mood. If you are calm and consistent, the team feels safe to do their best work. If you’re short-tempered or inconsistent, they’ll mirror that stress right back at you. I once worked with a leader who didn't realise that the way they catapulted the office door open set a hostile tone for the entire day.
Your Action:
This week, pay attention to how you respond when things go slightly sideways.
Do you cast a shadow of calm, or are you accidentally giving your team permission to be reactive?
Remember: what you don't condemn, you condone.
P.S. Whenever you're ready, here are three ways I can help you weave a stronger legacy in your business:
a) Join We Are Legacy Weavers: Our fellowship for leaders who want to build healthy, lasting cultures without the paper doilies.
b) Explore self-paced programmes: Practical, grounded tools you can use at your own pace to get your team back on track.
c) Book a 1:1 call: If you have a specific PMT situation or culture crisis, let’s map out a way forward.