After over a decade of research into what organizational democracy is, we've discovered the ten principles that it takes to cultivate a highly successful and sustainable democratic workplace.
These 10 Principles of Organizational Democracy must be put into practice on both the individual and leadership levels, and be supported by democratic systems and processes to have a successful democratic organization.
Purpose and Vision
A democratic organization is clear about why it exists (its purpose) and where it is headed and what it hopes to achieve (its vision). These act as its true North, offering guidance and discipline to the organization's direction.
Say goodbye to the "secret society" mentality. Democratic organizations are transparent and open with employees about the financial health, strategy, and agenda of the organization.
Dialogue + Listening
Instead of the top-down monologue or dysfunctional silence that characterizes most workplaces, democratic organizations are committed to having conversations that bring out new levels of meaning and connection.
Fairness + Dignity
Democratic organizations are committed to fairness and dignity, not treating some people like "somebodies" and other people like "nobodies."
Democratic organizations point fingers, not in a blaming way but in a liberating way. They are crystal clear about who is accountable to whom and for what.
Individual + Collective
In democratic organizations, the individual is just as important as the whole, meaning employees are valued for their individual contribution as well as for what they do to help achieve the collective goals of the organization.
Democratic organizations thrive on giving employees meaningful choices.
Integrity is the name of the game, and democratic companies have a lot of it. They understand that freedom takes discipline and also doing what is morally and ethically right.
Democratic organizations make sure power is appropriately shared and distributed among people throughout the organization.
Reflection + Evaluation
Democratic organizations are committed to continuous feedback and development and are willing to learn from the past and apply lessons to improve the future.