“In your company, you have precisely the culture you have designed,” I said.

“Yes, but nobody designed our culture,” protested Miguel. “It just is what it is.”

“Your culture is what it is, because you allowed it to happen that way. You currently have an unconscious culture that is drifting without guidance. To build a positive culture requires conscious work. And to get people to support that culture requires that they participate in its creation.”

“But what if the culture is already there?” Miguel was still trying to play the victim.

“Culture doesn’t get carved in stone. It is constantly changing, for better or for worse. The conversation about culture can start anytime.”

Miguel was quiet, then finally asked a question. “So, what does this conversation sound like?”

“Why don’t we talk about it all together? When can you collect your management team?”

“How about tomorrow morning? Early.” -TF