How to Create an Organizational Culture That Attracts Talent

June 18, 2025 – In today’s competitive hiring environment, organizations must go beyond the basics to stand out. While competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits are essential for recruiting talent, another aspect that is often overlooked is organizational culture, according to a recent report from Kinsley|Sarn Executive Search. “A positive and engaging workplace environment can be a key differentiator in attracting and retaining skilled professionals,” the report said. “Yet, creating an organizational culture that attracts top talent requires intentional effort and a commitment to continuous improvement.”

Kinsley|Sarn offers a few strategies to create an organizational culture that stands out in a way that appeals to top candidates and fosters long-term employee loyalty.

1. Define Your Core Values.

At the heart of any thriving organizational culture are its core values, the Kinsley|Sarn explained. “These values guide decision-making, shape behavior, and influence the overall environment,” it said. “To improve your company culture, start by defining what your company stands for. Clearly articulating these values guarantees that everyone is on the same page and helps attract individuals whose personal values align with those of the organization.”

“One way to transmit your core values to current and potential employees is to invest in your employer brand,” the report said. “This can help you create an identity that resonates with your target audience, communicate your values, and inspire employees. It also allows you to stand out from the competition and attract top talent.”

2. Foster Open Communication.

Transparency and open communication are fundamental to a strong organizational culture, according to the Kinsley|Sarn report. The firm noted to create an environment where employees feel comfortable opening up, encourage regular feedback through stay conversations. In these sessions, managers have the opportunity to hear employees’ ideas and concerns, which can help them address them earlier rather than later.

“Also, it is important to ensure that communication can flow freely across all levels of the organization,” the study said. “An open-door policy can make employees feel valued and heard, fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty.”

3. Promote Diversity and Inclusion.

A diverse and inclusive workplace not only reflects a commitment to equality but Kinsley|Sarn explains that it also brings a variety of perspectives and ideas. “Aim to create policies and practices that promote diversity at all levels of the organization,” the report said. “Encourage inclusive hiring practices, provide diversity training, and celebrate diverse backgrounds and viewpoints. This inclusivity can make your organization more attractive to a broader talent pool.”

4. Encourage Professional Development.

Recruiters also say that top talent is often drawn to companies that invest in their growth. “Provide opportunities for continuous learning and development, such as training programs, workshops, and mentorship initiatives,” the Kinsley|Sarn report said. “Encourage employees to pursue certifications, attend conferences, and further their education. A culture that supports professional growth can help retain employees and attract ambitious individuals looking for long-term career development.”

Related: Fostering A Strong Workplace Culture to Drive Business Growth

5. Recognize and Reward Achievements.

Recognition and rewards play a crucial role in creating a positive organizational culture, according to the Kinsley|Sarn report. “Implement a system that acknowledges and celebrates achievements, both big and small,” it said. “Whether through formal recognition programs, bonuses, or simple verbal appreciation, showing that you value your employees’ hard work and contributions can boost morale and motivation.”

Creating a Purpose-Driven Culture

Culture can often feel elusive—something we all sense but find difficult to define. However, it plays a crucial role in shaping how organizations operate and thrive, according to a recent report from TalentRise’s Kristen Fox. “We create culture through the thoughtful intersection of mission, vision, and values. By delving into cultural design, we can gain clarity on this important concept,” she said. So, what exactly is organizational culture? “It is a complex and multifaceted concept, with definitions ranging from an operating system to the sum of values and rituals,” Ms. Fox said. “It can even be compared to an organism’s immune system—healthy or unhealthy, vibrant, or stagnant.”

6. Balance Work and Life.

Work-life balance is increasingly important to today’s workforce –– and taking time to understand that employees have commitments outside of work and supporting their need for balance can create a more satisfied and productive workforce, Kinsley|Sarn explained. “You can support your teams by establishing flexible working hours and offering remote work options,” the firm said. “Additionally, recognizing and respecting employees’ personal time and commitments can foster a more dedicated and motivated workforce.”

7. Lead by Example.

Kinsley|Sarn also noted that leadership sets the tone for organizational culture. “Leaders should embody the core values and behaviors they want to see in their employees,” the report noted. “Transparent decision-making, ethical behavior, and a commitment to the well-being of the team can inspire employees to follow suit. Strong, value-driven leadership can be a magnet for top talent looking for a positive and supportive work environment.”

Related: Comprehending Organizational Culture and Climate: Essential Elements for Effective Leadership

8. Build a Community.

Creating a sense of community within the workplace can enhance organizational culture. “There are many ways you can bring employees together, including team-building activities, social events, and collaborative projects,” the Kinsley|Sarn report stressed. “They can help create cohesive and connected teams––all while improving collaboration, fostering friendships, and making the workplace more enjoyable.”

9. Embrace Innovation.

Encouraging innovation and creativity can make your organization a dynamic and exciting place to work, according to the Kinsley|Sarn report. The firm said to aim to build an environment where new ideas are welcomed and experimentation is encouraged. Not only can it attract innovative thinkers who are eager to contribute to a forward-thinking organization, but it will help your organization stay competitive in your industry.

10. Solicit and Act on Feedback.

Regularly solicit feedback from employees about their experiences and perceptions of the company culture, the Kinsley|Sarn report explained. “To gather this information, you can conduct surveys, use suggestion boxes, and schedule one-on-one meetings to gather insights,” the firm said. “More importantly, act on this feedback to make necessary improvements. Showing that you value and respond to employee input can significantly strengthen the trust your employees have in the organization. Remember, a strong organizational culture is not built overnight, but with consistent effort, it can become your greatest asset in the quest for top talent.”

Find Top Talent That Aligns with Your Organizational Culture

If you are currently hiring, this is the perfect opportunity to bring on new team members who can contribute to your organizational culture –– helping it thrive from within. At Kinsley Sarn, they believe that from the very first interaction that you have with potential hires, you should convey what your company stands for, what you value, and what you expect from an employee. “This will help set the right expectations and determine if the candidate is a good fit for the position,” the firm said. “Additionally, it will give the candidate a clear understanding of the role and the expectations of the company from the very beginning.”

Kinsley|Sarn is an Indianapolis, IN-based client driven executive search firm that has been in business for over 15 years helping clients through the identification, acquisition, and integration of exceptional leadership talent.

Related: 6 Steps for Creating an Inclusive Workplace Culture

Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor  – Hunt Scanlon Media