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The developing and changing world order also changes and shapes the working culture of companies, as in every field. Although it is thought of as an abstract concept, culture exists in every environment we live in. Culture is the most important factor behind success; whether it is the success of a society, a company, or a person. At this point, there is a fact that needs to be taken into account that it is not to be firmly attached to this culture but to be able to develop and reshape the culture.

This is the biggest secret of companies that have been established recently but are rapidly developing and can reach large masses. Spotify and Netflix are among the first names that come to mind when it comes to the entertainment industry. When we look at these two companies, it is seen that the most important factor behind their success is the company culture they apply. So what is the corporate culture that has developed and continues to develop these brands so much in such a short time?

Even the concept of “corporate culture” is fairly new. Generally, culture is defined as the sum of social values ​​that have been firmly adhered to over the years, but new generation companies are now aiming to change this taboo definition. When we look at the corporate cultures of Spotify and Netflix, it is quite ironic that the first rule is “no rules” because when culture is mentioned, a set of values ​​and rules usually comes to mind.

The main purpose of both brands is to entertain people. As it is known, having fun is one of the most basic human needs. Both Netflix and Spotify try to achieve these goals within themselves, which is a very correct strategy. There are many principles that they adopt in this strategy. At the beginning of these, they encourage their employees to make decisions freely with the concept of the autonomous individual. This approach aims to change the “order-obedience” system from the past. The role of managers is no longer to say what needs to be done but to understand the problems and their causes by communicating with their employees at every stage. At this point, what is expected from the employees is to find the most appropriate solution to the problems in cooperation. Of course, this approach also brings a new dimension to the relationship and communication between employees. The hierarchical order is replaced by the concepts of teamwork, communication, and cooperation. Employees work in teams, focusing on the main goal. It is important to share information between teams for the system to progress quickly and accurately. With this sharing principle, internal communication within 8 companies is strengthened. Evaluating the data correctly is the most important point in determining long-term goals and developing strategies. At this point, taking risks is also very important. Another principle of their success is that both companies encourage their employees to take risks at this point. The basis of this principle is that leaders trust their employees. While this trust ensures the motivation of the employees, it also plays a major role in their self-development. In this way, employees become a source of inspiration for themselves and their teammates. Feedback is also very important in terms of recovery and renewal. At this point, employees should be open to criticism both within the company and within the teams, and they should be able to freely share their thoughts. Working with a professional approach and focusing on the main goal is the most basic feature expected from employees. At this point, Netflix emphasizes seeing itself as a team player, not as a family member.

The biggest advantage of having a systematic working order is to be able to manage time correctly and effectively in solving problems. When you establish a flexible and innovative system, it is inevitable to minimize confusion. Being solution-oriented in the face of problems is another step towards progress. The most important principle underlying all these principles is effective communication within the company. The way to creativity goes through sharing and socializing. We can clearly understand from the progress they have made in a short time that both brands are quite successful in this regard.

As a result, the culture adopted is the key to success, but the adoption of culture means not to squeeze it into narrow molds, on the contrary, to renew it and make it understandable by everyone. Thus, culture becomes a dynamic concept that is both strengthened and continuous.

Source: Harvard Business Review & Lighthouse