Leadership Self-Audit for Building a

Constructive Work Culture

Mark Komen, President

Kodyne, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN

Leaders who want to foster constructive work cultures need to take a close look at how they’re showing up, communicating and shaping the environment around them. Here’s a comprehensive self-audit checklist designed to help leaders reflect, re-calibrate and realign their approach to building a thriving workplace. See my related article – You’re Being Watched! How Organizational Leaders Embed Culture.

Please consider the following questions with this lead-in: “To what extent ….”

In the brackets, rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 5 where:

1 = “hardly ever“

2 = “rarely”

3 = “sometimes”

4 = “often”

5 = “almost always“

Leadership & Team Dynamics

[   ]  Do I lead by example with integrity, empathy, and fairness?

[   ]  Do I actively build trust within my team through consistency and transparency?

[   ]  Do I delegate effectively and empower others to make decisions?

[   ]  Am I approachable and receptive to feedback, regardless of source or rank?

Communication Practices

[   ]  Do I ensure open, honest, and respectful communication in all directions?

[   ]  Do I actively listen, without interrupting or dismissing ideas prematurely?

[   ]  Do I give timely, constructive feedback that encourages growth?

[   ]  Am I clear in articulating goals, expectations, and values?

Culture & Environment

[   ]  Do I foster psychological safety—where people feel safe to speak up?

[   ]  Is diversity of thought not only welcomed, but actively sought out?

[   ]  Do I promote inclusivity and equitable opportunities for all team members?

[   ]  Are well-being, work-life balance, and mental health supported, not sidelined?

Decision-Making & Accountability

[   ]  Do I base decisions on data, input, and team alignment rather than ego?

[   ]  Do I admit mistakes, take ownership, and model accountability?

[   ]  Do I celebrate wins and learn from losses collectively?

Growth & Development

[   ]  Do I invest in ongoing development for myself and my team?

[   ]  Am I curious and open to evolving leadership practices?

[   ]  Do I recognize potential and nurture talent?

Reflection & Renewal

[   ]  Have I requested 360° feedback lately—from peers, direct reports, and mentors?

[   ]  Have I set aside time to reflect on my own emotional intelligence and resilience?

[   ]  Do I periodically revisit team values and adjust practices to stay aligned?

Suggested Reading

©2025 Mark J. Komen. All rights reserved worldwide