Q. How to better understand the culture of an organization you are thinking of joining?
One may operationally define the culture of an organization as "The way we do things around here." Generally, there are no less than two versions, the one written in brochures, and the actual experiences of the current employees. Ask to meet with them.
Some suggestions follow as you prepare for your real-world site assessment of where, and with whom you will be investing your reputation, intellect, creativity, and time with for perhaps, at least, the next 2 to 5 years.
First, understand that you may capture 98.9% of what this system of executive management offers into four major categories:
People, Process, Technology, and Leadership.
Your professional success will reply about 85% on your ability to first seek to understand how their culture really works now in integrating relationships across multiple disciplines. Ask to meet with those who will be your colleagues once you are brought on-board.
The response you are provided for this request will tell you more about their culture than any of their brochures and wall posters.
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William M. Hayden Jr., Ph.D., P.E., CMQ/OE, F.ASCE
Buffalo, N.Y.
"It is never too late to be what you might have been." -- George Eliot 1819 - 1880
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-13-2019 11:34
From: Zachary Gautsch
Subject: Considering Company Culture in Job Search
Personally, I have found that company culture seems to be more elusive and one of the unknown unknowns. It is difficult to understand and compare company cultures until you have experienced it or multiple different cultures. I look for a company culture that will promote or at least have a space for team building and growth, developing professional relationships, and the ability to learn and/or fail. If I were looking for a position, the main culture element I would look for is what does the company do to promote culture. Be it sponsored activities, lunch and learns, office parties, and what level the company will invest into the personnel. Once I meet with the company, I ask the interviewers about the culture, how often the members are together outside of billable work, and what support is given to staff. I also hope for a diverse staff, which I can only experience during onsite interviews. The more diverse, often the better the culture.
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Zachary Gautsch M.ASCE
Haley and Aldrich
Woodland Hills CA
Original Message:
Sent: 04-12-2019 17:09
From: Jameelah Ingram
Subject: Considering Company Culture in Job Search
What impact does company culture have in your job search? What qualities do you look for when you choose to join a team or office? Your feedback on this topic will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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Jameelah Ingram P.E., M.ASCE
Washington, DC
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