You can judge a culture by its song.
That may sound poetic, but I’ve found it to be true. When you’re working intentionally to strengthen a company’s culture, you look for signs that you’re moving in the right direction.
I never expected to find one of those signals in the “Happy Birthday” song.
Recently, after we sang to a long-time employee, she thanked our little ensemble for “the greatest rendition she ever heard in the office.” It made us laugh. But something was different.
The room was louder. The smiles were real. It wasn’t an obligation; it was joyful noise.
That small moment felt like confirmation. Culture can show up in unscripted moments — how people celebrate, support, and show up for one another.
If your team sings “Happy Birthday,” listen closely. The way it sounds might tell you more about your culture than any survey ever could.