How do you build a strong company culture that transcends space and time?
This is an increasingly pertinent question that global leaders will have to answer as societal norms continue to move toward remote and hybrid work cultures. The rapid integration of evolving technology throughout worldwide systems is changing how humans live, work, and interact with each other and the world around them. Maintaining corporate culture in the age of remote work is no easy task, but companies like PQE Group are finding ways to adapt and thrive. I find it interesting to observe how such a human-centric sector like Life Sciences is affected by transforming tech and landscapes that promote life more at a distance, such as with telehealth services, medical devices, and tools that allow healthcare providers to deliver critical care and support remotely and extend their reach beyond traditional settings.
At PQE Group, our culture and power are rooted in our diverse and talented team that strives to learn, inspire, and facilitate positive change. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 35% of full-time employees worked remotely in 2023, up from 34% in 2022. This shift in work dynamics underscores the importance of fostering a sense of belonging and engagement in a dispersed workforce. To keep business running smoothly and workers happy, leaders must navigate this change by being intentional with how they cultivate their company culture.
Reinforce the Mission
It’s no longer enough to rely on physical proximity to create connection and purpose—and with modern technology, it’s not even necessary. Instead, companies need to craft experiences and structures that enable a shared sense of identity no matter where employees are based. Our PQE Group team is bonded by our motive to “be the change” we wish to see in the world. We keep culture and morale high by empowering employees with a sense of purpose and encouraging them to contribute ideas and innovations. When team members feel valued and trusted, they align more strongly with the company’s goals. It’s also important for leaders to provide opportunities for career development and celebrate both individual and team achievements.
Communication is Key
Since remote and hybrid environments don’t allow employees to interact constantly in physical spaces where culture can be absorbed naturally, leaders must use clear and consistent messaging across virtual channels to rebuild identity. We ensure the team remains aligned and efficient at PQE Group by holding regular team meetings and practicing frequent, transparent communication and feedback. In these gatherings, we share updates, mark milestones, discuss challenges, and ultimately foster an environment that strengthens our collective identity and where every voice is heard.
Cultivate a Community
Embracing digital tools to foster connection and encourage frequent communication is vital in an age of technology and distance. Leaders can create virtual spaces for social interaction and continuous learning that give employees more opportunities to connect or upskill professionally. Company culture is the backbone of employee engagement, productivity, and long-term business outcomes. A well-defined culture not only sets the tone for how employees interact with one another but also shapes their connection to the organization’s mission and values.
A strong company culture is not just an asset; it is a vital component that propels institutions toward success. Now, leaders face a pivotal decision: they must explore innovative ways to reinforce their existing culture or seize the opportunity presented by remote work to fundamentally transform it. This requires a proactive approach, as leaders must thoughtfully determine the direction in which they want their culture to evolve. By steering their teams toward a future where connection, purpose, and shared values take center stage, leaders can cultivate a vibrant organizational culture that thrives in today’s dynamic environment.
How will you build and maintain your company culture in a remote world?
