When job hunting, it’s important to look beyond just the job responsibilities and salary. A strong organisational culture can make all the difference in your job satisfaction and success. Organisational culture is not ping-pong tables and free meals (although that may be a part of it), it is more about the company’s holistic approach to its employees and the way it does things – it’s how companies do things.
During your application process take your time to research a company and remember that interviews are two-way! You’re also gauging whether a company is a good fit for you.
Here are the top 5 signs of a strong organisational culture to note when job hunting:
Clear company values
A strong organisational culture is built on clear company values that guide decision-making and behaviour. Look for companies that have a clearly defined set of values and incorporate them into all aspects of the business. If a company doesn’t have clear values or can’t articulate them to you, it could be a red flag.
Opportunities for growth and development
A strong organisational culture values its employees and invests in their growth and development. Look for companies that offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and clear paths for career advancement. If a company doesn’t offer these opportunities or doesn’t prioritize employee growth, it could be a sign of a weak culture.
Positive employee reviews
Do your research and read reviews from current and former employees. Look for companies with positive reviews that mention a strong culture, supportive management, and opportunities for growth. If the majority of reviews are negative or mention a toxic work environment, it could be a sign to steer clear.
Employee retention rates
A strong organisational culture values its employees and actively strives to retain them. Look for companies with a high employee retention rate, which can be a sign of a positive work environment and satisfied employees. If a company has a high turnover rate or a history of laying off employees, it could be a sign of a weak culture.
Transparent communication
A strong organisational culture values transparent communication and fosters open dialogue. Look for companies that prioritize clear and frequent communication with employees, including regular performance feedback, company-wide updates, and opportunities for employees to provide feedback. If a company is vague or unresponsive in its communication, it could be a red flag.
Looking at the positives is important – but it’s also worth noting the red flags when valuing organisational culture.
Keep an eye out for these signs of bad organisational culture:
Lack of diversity and inclusion
A company that lacks diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and workplace culture can indicate a weak culture that doesn’t value all employees equally.
Poor work-life balance
A company that doesn’t prioritize work-life balance can lead to burnout and a negative work environment.
High-pressure sales tactics
If a company relies on high-pressure sales tactics or unethical practices to drive revenue, it could be a sign of a weak culture that values profits over employee well-being and ethical business practices.
Negative media coverage
Research a company’s recent news coverage and public reputation. If a company has been in the news for unethical practices or has a negative public image, do you really want to work for such a company? It does not reflect well on company culture and its values.
Lack of transparency in the hiring process
If a company is not transparent about the hiring process or job responsibilities, it could be a red flag that the company is not forthcoming with its employees.
When job hunting, it’s important to pay attention to both the signs of a strong organisational culture and company red flags. By doing your research and asking the right questions during the interview process, you can find a company with a culture that aligns with your values and priorities.
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