How Starbucks’s Culture Brings Its Strategy to Life

In most organizations, culture and strategy tend to be discussed in separate conversations.

Executives know that a negative culture can hurt company performance, but they may not know how to deal with it.

Walk into a Starbucks anywhere in the world, and you will find a consistently comfortable and welcoming ambiance. You don't get that simply by telling your staff to be warm and friendly.

• Starbucks has built a capability to foster a relationship-driven, employees-first approach, which encourages close relationships between staff.
• The feel of Starbucks stores exists because the people behind the counter understand how their work fits into a common purpose. They know how to accomplish great things together.
• Employees are called "partners." Even part-time staff in the U.S. receive stock options and health insurance.
• During the health-crisis, Starbucks chose to invest in their staff training.
• Starbucks understands the importance of having employees of diverse backgrounds to create a welcoming environment.