Workplace norms matter — for an inclusive corporate culture

What happens when an established tech company wants and needs to demonstrate that they are a great workplace for everyone, not just those who attended KTH in Stockholm or are named Hans? Tieto recognised the importance of actively working with norms and equity within its national management teams. It was time to take a step forward.

Amphi entered as consultants and educators, and together we began the work towards a more inclusive work culture. We started with an ideas seminar, gathering selected key individuals to start the dialogue and create an understanding of the challenges ahead.

Next, we conducted interviews with selected managers and leaders to gain insights directly from those playing a central role in the organisation. These conversations were eye-opening and helped us pinpoint specific areas needing improvement. With that foundation, we meticulously crafted, in close collaboration with our knowledgeable contacts, the content for the workshop offered to all 100 managers and leaders within the company.

• Unconscious bias, norms and privileges
• Psychological safety
• Power structures in the workplace
• The value of diverse skills and perspectives
• Equal career opportunities
• Inclusive teams and meetings

Amphi had the opportunity to work closely with several of Tieto’s management and leadership groups on selected themes related to equity, bias, and norms within the organization. It was an exciting process in which Tieto’s employees openly and courageously pointed out shortcomings in the company’s culture and, based on that, could work to strengthen routines and dialogue to refine their equity efforts.

Assignments like this remind us of the power of opening up for dialogue, challenging norms, and striving for change. Tieto and Amphi showed that when people take a step collectively, they can create a workplace that reflects the most valuable principles: equity, awareness, and openness.