Finding a company with a great ‘Culture-Fit’
At Key Corporate Services, we know the importance of matching a company’s culture to the values of the candidate.
And, it’s a key factor in successful candidate placement. Companies have an easier time determining a match in skills and experience than they do in identifying whether the attitude of the candidate is going to be a good “fit” for the company’s culture. So, about 80% of the time spent in the interview is going to involve just trying to determine if the candidate is “right for the team.”
It can be said that job-hunting is similar to dating. In both, the goal is to find the perfect match. Whether it’s a partner or company, you are looking for something that matches your values and brings out the best in you.
As someone looking for a job, it is important to learn as much as you can about a company’s culture before you step foot in the interview room. Use these five tips to find a company you will love.
Ask yourself…”What’s important to me?”
In order to evaluate an organization, you first have to decide what’s most important to you. In other words, what are you looking for? Do you enjoy an environment that’s entrepreneurial and fast-paced? Or, do you work best in a slower, controlled workplace? Have past employers been large corporations, or small family-owned enterprises? Ask yourself, which would work best for you?
Get some help online
Use online tools to identify companies known for certain qualities such as innovation or work-life balance. Check for openings on their websites. Set up and saved searches and Google alerts for future openings with companies matching your culture objectives.
Ask for your friends’ opinions
Employee referrals are powerful introductions to any job. Always check your network to see if you know someone before you apply. Your connection can provide you with insight into the company culture and hiring process to (a) make sure it’s a good fit for you and, (b) better prepare you for interviews.
Cyber stalk before you meet
Just as you might check out a new date online before that first meeting, review the online information about a company before interviewing with them. Social media accounts give great insight into the company’s culture and help develop questions for the interview.
Use the interview to ask…and listen for culture-related information.
Ask the interviewer how they would describe their company’s culture, what kinds of people are most successful in the organization, and why. This will help you determine if the company is right for you, and show the interviewer that you’re interested in the role and have done your homework.
When job hunting, remember to carefully consider a company’s culture before accepting an opportunity. Like any relationship, you want it to stand the test of time.
