Craft beer and workplaces might seem an unusual pair, but there's a lot more brewing under the surface.
In the Crafting Culture and Belonging Part 1 episode of the podcast, we delved into the world of craft beer and its profound influence on community building and work culture. We explore how the brewing process is not just about crafting delicious beer but also creating a sense of belonging and connection.
MICROBREWERIES PARALLEL THE WORKPLACE
Our journey starts with a local microbrewery, the Ferndale Project. This small-scale brewery exemplifies how a seemingly simple process of brewing beer can parallel the intricate blend of diverse individuals in the workplace. Just like the brewing process requires different ingredients, workplaces consist of employees from diverse backgrounds and locations. They all need to be brewed together, creating a rich blend of ideas and perspectives. The catalyst in this brewing process is a shared purpose that fosters a sense of belonging.
Craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries play a pivotal role in their local communities. They create emotional ties and transform localities, proving that despite the era of digital convenience and globalization, the human need for emotional connection and community is still very much alive. In the world of work, this translates to companies fostering deeper connections with their local communities. A trend that's becoming increasingly popular is the concept of 'work resorts' - workplaces that offer more than just work, they become destinations, with restaurants, art galleries, and cafes.
CO-CREATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ARE KEY INGREDIENTS FOR BELONGING
In the case of Ferndale Project, they have emphasized the importance of co-creation and community engagement. The design of their space was not decided solely by the owners or designers. Instead, they actively engaged the community, inviting them to contribute their ideas. This approach resulted in a space that truly reflected what the community wanted, amplifying their sense of belonging. The impact of culture in the workplace cannot be understated. It's what motivates us and gives us a sense of belonging. As we dive deeper into the research and collaboration with Aragami and the story of Ferndale Project in our next episode, we will explore how workplaces of the future can be designed to be more community-oriented and locally authentic.
Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or an employer trying to create a positive work culture, there's a lot to learn from the world of craft beer. The brewing process provides a unique lens to view the intricacies of community building and workplace culture. Just like the best beers are crafted with care and passion, the best workplaces are those that foster a sense of belonging, celebrate diversity, and actively engage with their communities.
