Embarking on a job search is a thrilling yet challenging journey. While the allure of a shiny job title and competitive salary might be enticing, it’s equally crucial to find a company whose culture aligns with your values and aspirations. In this blog, we’ll explore effective strategies for you to find your ideal workplace, focusing on deciphering organisational culture through asking the right questions and understanding the nuances of flexible work arrangements.
1. Research, Research, Research:
Before diving into interviews, invest time in researching potential employers. Explore their websites, employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor, and any news articles about recent achievements or controversies. Understand the company’s mission, vision, and values to gauge if they resonate with your own. Check their social media posts to see the company genuinely lives their values or if it’s just all PR.
2. Culture Fit Questions:
During interviews, ask questions that delve into the company’s culture. Examples include:
How would you describe the company culture here?
Can you share a specific example of how the company supports employee development?
What steps does the company take to foster diversity and inclusion?
Make sure you ask these questions to everyone you meet in the interview process to check for consistency.
3. Employee Perspectives:
Connect with current or former employees through professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Do their posts, reactions and updates match what you know about the company culture? Do they seem like people you would want to work with?
4. Flexible Work Environments:
In the modern workplace landscape, flexibility has become a key consideration for many job seekers. If a company claims to offer flexible work arrangements, it’s essential to explore the details. Ask questions like:
Can you elaborate on the company’s flexible work policies?
How do employees usually manage their work schedules, especially in terms of remote work?
Are there core hours or specific expectations regarding availability?
Don’t be afraid to ask if you can speak to someone in the team who works flexibly, and find how supportive, inclusive, and demanding the company is. While many companies claim to embrace flexible work, the reality may differ. To get a clear picture, inquire about:
How is performance measured for remote or flexible workers?
Are there tools or technologies in place to facilitate remote collaboration?
Can you share success stories of employees who have thrived in a flexible work arrangement?
5. Balancing Act:
Assess your own preferences and boundaries when it comes to flexibility. Understand how much flexibility is crucial for your well-being and productivity. It’s about finding a balance that suits both you and the company.
Finding the right company is not just about landing a job; it’s about securing a fulfilling and enriching career. By asking thoughtful questions about culture and flexibility, job seekers can make informed decisions that align with their values and aspirations. Remember, the job hunt is a two-way street – not only are you being evaluated by the company, but you should evaluate whether the company is the right fit for you.
If you are struggling to find the right company for you, or you're not sure which questions to ask, reach out to one of our coaches using the Live Chat or give us a call!
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