Which Company Culture is Right for You?
The Momentum Files #26
Ask yourself these questions to figure it out.
When it comes to company culture, people are pickier than ever… and I love to see it.
Employees are growing tired of tolerating work environments they don’t like.
So much so, that when job searching, questions about a company’s culture come up almost as frequently as questions about salary and responsibilities. It’s that important. Which is why I want to help you get clear on the answer to this question:
What type of company culture is right for me?
But first – what exactly is company culture?
When we talk about company culture, we’re talking about a shared belief in values, behaviors, standards and expectations that create that company’s work environment.
Deeper than a mission statement, it’s the day-to-day experiences that align (or don’t) with how you want to feel and be treated while at work.
To figure out your perfect-fit company culture, you can ask yourself questions that – when answered candidly and specifically – paint a clear picture of where you want to be (and where you’ll thrive!).
Set aside some time to answer these questions as specifically as possible. The idea is to go deep and identify what is important to you – and what each thing looks like for you.
➡️ What are my non-negotiables?
This could include work-life balance, a collaborative environment, opportunity for internal advancement and company dedication to diversity and inclusion.
Whatever makes your list… go even deeper.
For example, if work-life balance is a must, what does that look like for you (no working nights or weekends, off-duty hours where there is no pressure to reply to emails or texts, etc.)?
➡️ How and where do I do my best work?
Think about what allows you to work at your full potential. This might include working on a team that prioritizes teambuilding and excellent attention to detail.
➡️ What would negatively affect my motivation and ability to live up to my potential?
For you, this might include a gossip-plagued office, ruthless competition, micromanaging or an untrustworthy leadership team.
➡️ What would my ideal day-to-day experience look like?
Really dig in here and go DEEPER by asking these additional questions:
- What does success look like with this company?
- How do teams handle conflict?
- What systems are in place to allow me to grow and advance?
- What does a typical day entail?
- What’s my favorite part of the job?
- Do I feel valued, in control and respected?
- Can I succeed in this company role while honoring my personal and professional boundaries?
➡️ How can I learn more about a company and its culture?
It’s time to go into detective mode and research any company you want to further explore.
- Check out the company mission statement and who they claim to be.
- Look at their social media accounts and website.
- Review websites like Glassdoor, Reddit and The Muse where you can see posted comments and opinions.
- Search for reviews and compare what the company says to what others are saying about them. Do things match up, or is it like reading two very different stories?
t’s easy to know what you DON’T want in a company culture. But taking time to think about and answer the questions above will help you get clear on what you don’t want… and what you DO.
I’m glad to see so many people more boldly choosing to work for companies that provide a culture that aligns with their values, beliefs and expectations. I hope you’ve done (or plan to do) the same so that you can thrive and achieve success!
Reply and share your favorite takeaway (or #1 non-negotiable!).