The Fishy Truth About Culture

Have you ever heard the phrase, “The fish rots from the head down?”

I use it all the time to suggest that when an organization is struggling, leadership is likely the root of the problem. In other words, dysfunction starts at the top and trickles down into the organization.

Turns out, the idea that a fish rots from the head down is wrong. Biologically speaking, fish actually decompose fairly evenly, with the guts breaking down fastest due to bacteria.

Yet the concept—that leaders set the tone in an organization—is spot on, so I am going to keep using this phrase.

Culture isn’t crafted in mission statements or plastered on the walls—it’s revealed in what leaders do, what they celebrate, and what they tolerate.

Here are some tips to shape a strong, values-aligned culture in your organization:

• Model behaviors—Embody the values you want to see in others. If you want a culture of accountability, start by owning your own mistakes.

• Celebrate alignment—Recognize when team members act in ways that reflect the culture.

• Address misalignment—Don’t look the other way. Ignoring toxic or off-brand behavior gives it permission to thrive—and signals to your team that values are optional.

Culture can drift without clear guidance. And when it does, well…things start to smell.

What message does your behavior send to your team?