Finding Your Fit: Navigating Job Opportunities Based on Workplace Culture
The term ‘workplace culture’ might have been associated with ping-pong tables and Friday after-work drinks once upon a time, but now more than ever, the culture of a workplace means more than just on-the-job perks – it’s about how an organisation makes their employees feel.
Since the pandemic, we’ve seen a shift in the priorities of job seekers move towards finding a better work-life balance and alignment with personal values. Are they represented? Do they feel psychologically safe? Does the organisation provide opportunities for personal and professional growth? Do they have workplace policies to formally offer flexible work arrangements? These are all viable questions job seekers have these days but are often overlooked by organisations in their employer branding efforts prior to publishing open job roles.
So without these insights into an organisation, how do you assess if a workplace culture is the right fit for you when searching for a new job?
Start by Revisiting Your Priorities
To navigate job offers based on workplace culture effectively, it’s a good idea to start by revisiting your priorities. What are your values, both personally and professionally? What kind of work environment do you thrive in? What are your long-term career goals? Understanding your own needs and aspirations is the first step in finding the right cultural fit.
Organisations that know the value of culture will actively and naturally promote this through their people and online presence, making it easy to do your research in the search to see if it aligns with your priorities.
Here’s what you may be able to find on an organisation’s career page and social channels:
Company Values and Mission Alignment. Begin by researching the company’s values and mission statement. Do they align with your own beliefs and goals? Consider whether you feel genuinely connected to the company’s purpose.
Employee Testimonials and Reviews. Dig into employee testimonials and online reviews. What do current and former employees say about the company’s culture, leadership, and work-life balance? Are there any recurring themes or concerns?
Company Policies. Review the company’s policies related to flexible work, diversity and inclusion, and employee well-being. Are they in line with what you value in a workplace? Do they reflect a commitment to employee support and growth?
Opportunities for Professional Growth and Development. Evaluate the company’s commitment to your professional growth. Are there opportunities for skill development and advancement within the organization? A supportive workplace should offer avenues for you to grow and evolve in your career.
Evaluating Job Opportunities Based on Culture Fit
The interview stage is your next best opportunity to assess the cultural fit of a prospective new job opportunity.
During the interview process, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the company’s workplace culture. Your potential employer’s responses can provide valuable insights into what it’s like to work there.
Some questions you might ask include:
“How would you describe the company’s culture?”
“Can you tell me about the leadership style within the organisation?”
“What opportunities for professional development are available to employees?”
Prioritising workplace culture during your job search is a valuable investment in both your career journey and overall well-being. By knowing your own personal values you want to align with a potential employer and doing your due diligence in the research and interview process, you’ll be sure to find a workplace culture that resonates with you. Check out our jobs board to start your search today and set up personalised job alerts from family-friendly employers of choice here.
For more information on how Working Parents Connect can assist with your recruitment campaigns or employer branding, contact our team.