Culture is the unique set of beliefs, behaviors, and traditions of a community. These practices are not merely superficial, but are rather the products of generations of shared ideas and experiences. They include the language and customs of a group, beliefs about their roles in society, and art. Culture also includes traditions that may be inherited by descendants. The concept of culture has many definitions, but in general, it is a system of shared beliefs and behavior.

A culture’s values, or norms, are the core of its makeup. These are the broad tendencies that people share – good versus evil, natural versus artificial – that govern their behavior. Although many of these values are not expressed in words, they are implicit in actions and can only be inferred by those who share them. Other elements of culture are visuals, symbols, and rituals, but only the people who share them have the ability to understand their true meaning.

While material culture is comprised of material objects, immaterial culture is based on ideas and ideals. The latter includes beliefs, ideas, and values, and the means by which people get around. Culture affects every aspect of a business, from the people who work in it to the products and services they create. Despite the many benefits that culture brings to a business, it is not without risk. Here are five steps you can take to improve your culture: