Finding the right company cultural fit

When interviewing with a new company, everyone knows to review the role, the benefits and the salary. However, even though company culture is one of the leading reasons people change jobs, many candidates don't think to evaluate the culture of the company during the interview process.

If you are ready to begin your job hunt, follow these five key steps to determine if a company’s culture is the right fit for you:

1. Self-evaluation 

Before considering a company’s culture, it is important to first understand the type of work environment you thrive in. Think about your previous or present employer(s). What aspects of the workforce did you enjoy most? What were the things you didn’t enjoy? Once you have a general idea of the type of work environment you are looking for, you can start analysing the companies you are interviewing with.

2. Review the website

Most start-ups have dedicated web pages that specifically showcase their people, their mission and their core values. This is a great way to get a basic understanding of what principles the company values most and what they look for in potential employees. Companies often have a photo gallery on their website to give a better understanding of the office vibe. This is a great resource to get a sneak-peak inside the office.

Company Culture is about working with like-minded people. I like being challenged and want to be comfortable challenging my peers, which is easier when you know that you have the same values and goals in mind.

3. Social media research 

Another good way to get a feel for a company’s culture is to do some online research. Be sure to check out their social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Viewing their recent posts on their social sites can give you an understanding of the company’s activities, team outings, published content and latest news coverage.

4. Be observant 

When interviewing at a company, look beyond the people you interview with. Look around the office. Can you see yourself working with the people there? Do they look like they are engaged and enjoying their role? Visiting the office gives you the opportunity to glimpse into the very soul of the company. 

Perhaps one of the most valuable impressions of the workplace is during the initial onsite interview. This gives you a chance to observe the other employees and how they interact. It also allows you to understand the office set-up. Is it a collaborative space? Are people tied to their desk or are they moving around? Can you see yourself working there? These are all things to think about during your onsite interview. 

5. Ask questions

The final step in understanding a potential employer’s company culture is to ask them about the work environment during the interview. Some great questions would include the following:  

• How would you describe the company culture here?

• Who would I be working the closest with? 

• What do you wish you knew before starting here?

• What key traits are essential for filling this role? 

These questions should help in deciding if the company is the right fit for you and if you can see yourself there in the long-term.