Let's discuss sub-cultures

In the workplace, sub-cultures are often informal and can be based upon things like: backgrounds, leisure pursuits, faith, personality traits, ambitions etc.

Think of football supporters attending a match. Their purpose is the same: to support their team and hopefully encourage them to a good performance. Yet some groups (or sub-cultures) of supporters will down eight pints of Foster's before a match, some will enjoy a caramel latte and an almond croissant, some will get into the ground as soon as it's open to sample the atmosphere etc. As long as the supporters are in good cheer during the match and respectful to each other, does it matter what their pre-match routine is?

In a work environment, it is important to have some overall - and some non-negotiable - expectations around culture and behaviours but there must be appreciation of subcultures too.

It's natural for people who work together to have their own groove. As long as how they communicate, joke around and get work done doesn't work against overall expectations it should be viewed as a healthy thing, as they help to form connections and a sense of purpose. 

I guess you could say it's a human thing...