Culture Contract
A Culture Contract is a collaboratively created agreement that defines how a team will work together, fostering a shared understanding of values, behaviors, and expectations. It enhances psychological safety and accountability by making implicit norms explicit.
Use this method when launching a new team, onboarding new members, or when a team needs to reset its working agreements due to conflict or shifting priorities.
Solves: Unclear expectations, interpersonal conflict, lack of accountability, inconsistent behavior, low psychological safety.
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Step 1: Individual Reflection (10 min) - Each team member reflects on their ideal team culture and desired behaviors.
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Step 2: Share and Discuss (20 min) - Each member shares their reflections, focusing on common themes and potential conflicts.
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Step 3: Draft the Contract (30 min) - As a group, draft the Culture Contract, including specific behaviors, expectations, and consequences for violations.
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Step 4: Agreement and Commitment (10 min) - Review the contract, make final adjustments, and obtain explicit agreement from each member.
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Step 5: Regular Review (Ongoing) - Schedule regular reviews (e.g., monthly) to ensure the contract remains relevant and effective.
- Encourage open and honest communication.
- Ensure all voices are heard and valued.
- Focus on behaviors rather than personalities.
- Document the contract in a visible and accessible location.
- Use a template to guide the contract creation process.
- Incorporate a voting system to prioritize behaviors.
- Assign a 'Culture Champion' to monitor and promote adherence to the contract.