Build a Positive Workplace Culture One Interaction at a Time

By Candace Fisher, SPHR, Director, Organizational Development/Certified Coach
Published July 14, 2026

I must admit to feeling pessimistic about the world lately. It’s easy to focus on people's lack of accountability and the negativity that often seems to dominate the headlines. But then I realized that I’d been focusing on the wrong things. There are plenty of kind, responsible, and positive people, and I've been fortunate to encounter many of them.

I was in downtown Chicago on a rainy, windy, generally miserable day and had to make my way across the Loop. I knew taking a cab would probably take as long as walking, so I decided to brave the weather. Unfortunately, the convenience store umbrella I bought that morning collapsed less than 20 minutes later, leaving me thoroughly soaked by the time I reached my destination.

Even so, I couldn't help but notice the cheerful way the receptionist greeted me. Her positive attitude immediately lifted my spirits, and I found myself responding with the same energy.

Later, I settled into a corner of a lobby to catch up on some work while my phone charged. Nearby, a few employees were laughing and joking together. They quickly apologized when they noticed me, but I encouraged them to keep enjoying themselves. "It's important to enjoy your work and the people you work with," I said.

Later, as I headed to the Blue Line to catch the train to the airport, I realized I had forgotten how to use the ticket vending machine. When a CTA employee asked if I needed help, I laughed and admitted I had no idea what I was doing. He smiled, stepped out of the booth, and patiently walked me through the process.

As I boarded the train with my bags, a gentleman who had been dozing near the door woke up and offered me his seat. I thanked him but declined because there were plenty of open seats farther down the car. Still, I appreciated the gesture. It reminded me that simple acts of kindness are more common than we sometimes believe.

My flight was delayed for several hours, but the positive interactions continued. Security staff, gate agents, and fellow travelers all treated one another with patience and respect. When I finally settled into my seat on the plane, I remembered a quote from our Totally Responsible Organization sessions: "I cannot blame anyone else for how I feel, what I do, or the attitude I choose."

The weather was miserable. My flight was delayed. I could have spent the entire day frustrated. Instead, I chose to respond with positivity, and I was surprised by how often that positivity was returned. It was a reminder that our attitudes influence not only our own experiences but also the experiences of the people around us.

The same is true in our workplaces. What kind of environment are we creating each day? Do we contribute to a culture of positivity and accountability, or do we allow negativity to take hold?

Our training program, The Totally Responsible Organization: Working Better Together, helps leaders and individual contributors recognize and overcome the emotions, beliefs, and habits that can undermine collaboration and productivity. Every interaction is an opportunity to shape your workplace culture. Just as one cheerful greeting changed the course of my rainy day, your employees can learn how small choices in attitude, accountability, and communication create a more positive, productive workplace - one interaction at a time.