Would you normally wake up and want to go to work? Most people would probably answer NO to this question, especially during tax season.

Tax season is a stressful time for employees of CPA firms. Does it make a difference if there is a good company culture to help alleviate some of the stress? The workplace should not be something an employee dreads. While work may be difficult, the culture should not. On the contrary, a positive and fulfilling work culture should be designed to alleviate stress not increase it.

How do you create a positive and fulfilling company culture? The most important and first step in the process, starts by hiring people who fit your company’s goals and vision. Tony Hsieh, CEO of Zappos, one of the strongest advocates of company culture, states “when you hire people, they represent your company even outside of work, and if you have a positive opinion about this person most likely you’ll view their company in a positive light.”

It’s key to be flexible to change. These days employees are looking for more flexibility in the workplace than ever before. More companies are recognizing how important the work+life issue is for everyone, not just women and parents. Studies have shown that flexible schedules decreased employee “burn out” and have helped retain valuable employees that may otherwise leave.

Most importantly, build a culture where everyone is part of a team. This is a big one! If you feel valued and part of a team, you contribute to the overall success of the company. You may have a specific job function; however, you are joined with other members of the company to accomplish the overall goals of the company.

When you’re part of a company that has achieved a good culture, you may just wake up and answer that question, YES I do want to go to work!