How to assess a company's culture before you accept a role

When searching for a new role, it's important to take the responsibilities and salary into account, but it’s also vital to evaluate the company culture. Company culture plays a significant role in your job satisfaction and overall happiness and well-being. It defines the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors within an organization, which shapes the working environment and the employee experience. 

But how can you tell what a firm is like to work for, before you sign on the dotted line? To determine if a company's culture aligns with your preferences and work style, there are several ways you can learn about it before making a decision. Here are some effective methods to assess a company's culture. 

Checking out the corporate website 

The company's website is a great starting point to gather information about its culture. Look for sections such as "About Us," "Our Values," or "Our Mission." These often provide valuable insights into the company's core beliefs and the work environment it aims to create. Pay attention to the language used and the emphasis placed on employee well-being, diversity and inclusion, fostering collaboration, and encouraging employee growth.

Social Media Presence

Social media platforms offer fascinating, and revealing glimpses into a company's culture. Follow the company's official social media accounts and observe the type of content they share. Look for posts about company events, team-building activities, employee achievements, and community involvement. The tone and nature of the content can provide insights into the company's values, the way they engage with employees, and the kind of work environment they promote.

Review Sites

Online platforms such as Glassdoor or Indeed provide anonymous reviews from current and former employees. While it's important to approach these reviews with a critical mindset, they can offer valuable insights into the company's culture. Look for recurring themes or patterns in the reviews. Pay attention to feedback regarding leadership style, work-life balance, opportunities for growth, and overall employee satisfaction.

Networking Opportunities

Reach out to your professional network to gather information about the company or connect with current or former employees. Personal connections can provide you with firsthand accounts of the company's culture and work environment or they may be able to point you in the right direction to someone in their network who has direct experience. 

Ask about their time at the firm, the challenges they faced, and what they enjoyed most (or not) about working for the organization. You can also ask why they chose to leave, if this isn’t a sensitive issue. 

Questions to Ask at the Interview

Interviews are the ideal opportunity for you to assess the company's culture directly. Prepare a list of thoughtful questions to ask during the interview process. For example, you can inquire about the company's approach to employee development, work-life balance, or the communication style within the organization. Asking specific questions related to your priorities will give you insights into the company's values and how they align with your own.

Pay Attention to the Surroundings

During interviews or company visits, pay attention to your surroundings and the overall atmosphere of the workplace. Observe the interactions between employees and how they communicate with one another. Are people approachable and friendly? Is there a sense of collaboration and teamwork? Do employees seem happy and engaged? These observations can provide valuable cues about the company's culture and the work environment you may be stepping into.

Company Events and Initiatives

Take note of any company events or initiatives that are mentioned during the interview process or promoted on their marketing channels. For instance, if the company emphasizes team-building activities, employee recognition programs, or community involvement, it signals a focus on employee well-being and a positive work culture. Look for signs that the company invests in creating a supportive and engaging work environment.

Seek Information from Industry Associations or Groups

Industry associations or professional networks related to your field may have insights into the reputation and culture of specific companies. Engage with these communities to gather information and perspectives on the organizations you are considering. These insights can provide a broader understanding of the industry norms and help you evaluate a company's culture in comparison to others.

Trust Your Gut Feeling

Intuition can play a significant role in evaluating company culture. If something feels off or doesn't align with your values during the interview process or company visits, take note of it. Trust your instincts and consider how you would feel working in that environment. It's important to find a company culture that resonates with you and allows you to thrive personally and professionally.

By combining a handful or all of these methods, you should gain valuable insights into a company's culture before making a decision about accepting a job offer. Remember, company culture plays a crucial role in your job satisfaction and overall well-being. Finding the right cultural fit will not only contribute to your professional success but also enhance your overall happiness in the workplace.

If you’re looking for your next procurement and supply chain opportunity and would like to discuss some of the exciting companies Bramwith works with across the US and beyond, give us a call. We are connected to a wide variety of businesses that are actively seeking to recruit top talent right now. Get in touch - we would love to help you find your ideal company culture.