In many ways, modern #management demonstrates one of two underpinning virtuous circles, one performance enhancing the other performance reducing. These #performance circles can act on individuals, teams, departments or whole companies and organisations, so it is possible for both to exist at the same time but usually one prevails. These circles are often called, albeit often appropriately, “the company culture”. In reality views on “the company culture” are usually dominated by the way an individual interacts with their line manager and reflects the local culture. But one often begets another. The performance-enhancing circle is usually found when people are enjoying their job, doing it well, and receive ongoing praise and recognition for their hard work. The praise and recognition encouraging them to perform still better and a positive performance circle or culture is created. This is often achieved by ensuring each individual employee has a clear un...