Final answer:
Culture is the collective practices, values, and beliefs of a group. Organizational culture, a specific form of culture, is shaped primarily by its leaders, employees, and implemented structures and policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Culture
The term culture refers to the shared practices, values, and beliefs of a group. It involves aspects such as values, beliefs, attitudes, and systems which influence the behaviors of members within a society or organization. Culture is learned and includes the language, practices, and artifacts of a society which are passed down from generation to generation.
Shapers of Organizational Culture
In an organizational context, organizational culture is shaped by a number of entities, including leadership, employees, and organizational structures. Leaders play a crucial role in establishing and nurturing the culture within an organization through their vision and actions. Employees contribute to and experience the culture daily, which can evolve with their interactions. Lastly, organizational structures and processes establish the formal guidelines and processes that influence the workplace culture.
Understanding organizational culture is important not only for personal work success but also when considering job opportunities or managing career expectations. Workplace culture can significantly impact employer expectations and employee satisfaction and productivity.