Most people consider the salary, benefits, and opportunities to grow when they receive a job offer - very few consider the company culture. According to insight from Robert Walters, 73% of people have left a job because they don't like the company culture. What is company culture, and why is it important?
Company Culture
The company culture combines many elements that make up the workplace—for instance, the values, leadership, and how people work together. Positively, an organisation's culture is one where you have complete autonomy in your role and feel inspired and motivated by your manager. Managers usually operate in three ways - they give you the freedom to do your job with support when you need it, or they are entirely hands-off, and you can never get hold of them. On the other hand, they might be someone who is constantly sitting on your shoulder. If you don't get the match right, the relationship will be broken down. The company culture may be friendly and relaxed, where everyone is focused on their jobs but works collaboratively when needed. Alternatively, it could be a toxic environment where everyone is stepping on each other to try and climb the ladder! There may be flexibility in the workplace, or you might work to a rigorous structure. You must understand what culture you thrive in before deciding whether to accept a job offer.
The Importance of Company Culture
The company culture needs to be the right fit for various reasons.
- Happiness—If the culture fits your needs and expectations, you are likelier to feel happy in your job. You will feel comfortable and a sense of belonging if those around you fit your values and beliefs.
- Good relationship with manager—When you align with your manager, you are more likely to have a good relationship, which, in turn, will make you feel more motivated and engaged with the company and your role.
- Productive - employees who fit with the company culture will be more productive than those who are unhappy and unsettled.
- Retain—You are less likely to want to leave your role if you fit in with the company culture.
How to Find Out About Company Culture
Most people don't ask about the company culture during an interview, so it can be quite a surprise when you start the job. These are some questions you can ask during an interview to help you determine whether it will be the right fit for you:
- Is there any flexibility in the role? - this will help you understand whether the company offers the desired flexibility.
- What are the working hours? If the employer answers that they work 9-5 but most people stay until about 7 p.m., it will give you a good idea of whether this will be the type of place that will align with your needs.
- What is the management style? - they might say that the manager will speak to you several times throughout the day or that the manager is often working from home/travelling. You can decide if the management style works for you.
- Who will I be collaborating with? You will find out if there is a lot of collaboration in the role.
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