Understanding the working culture of a company is important to ensure a good fit and long-term satisfaction with your role. Company culture includes values, norms, work environment, and employee attitudes, all of which contribute to the overall experience of working at an organisation. But how do you find out about company culture before you get your foot in the door?
How to learn more about internal company culture:
Company Website and Social Media
Start your journey of learning about a company's internal culture by visiting their official website and social media profiles. Look for sections on their website that discuss their mission, vision, values, and culture. Pay attention to the language they use and the messages they convey about their employees and work environment. Additionally, explore their social media platforms to get a sense of their company culture. Does the company post about their employees? Are the employees involved with the company content?
Research Employee Reviews
Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed are valuable resources for gathering insights into a company's internal culture. Read employee reviews and ratings to understand their experiences, opinions, and perceptions of the company. Pay attention to recurring themes or trends in the reviews, such as work-life balance, leadership style, opportunities for growth, and overall employee satisfaction. While it's essential to take individual reviews with a grain of salt, patterns in feedback can provide valuable insights into the company's culture.
Network with Current and Former Employees
Networking with current and former employees of the company can offer valuable firsthand insights into its internal culture. Reach out to employees on LinkedIn and ask them about their experiences working at the company. Be respectful of their time and approach the conversation with genuine curiosity and interest. Ask open-ended questions about the company's culture, values, work environment, and any challenges or opportunities they've encountered. Building connections with employees can provide invaluable insider perspectives that may not be readily available online.
Industry Recognition
Companies that prioritise their internal culture and employee well-being are often recognized for their efforts through industry rankings, awards, and certifications. Research industry rankings and awards that the company has received for its workplace culture, diversity initiatives, employee satisfaction, or other relevant metrics. Companies that consistently receive recognition for their internal culture are likely to prioritise employee engagement, growth, and well-being, making them desirable places to work.
Learning about the internal culture at the companies you want to work at is a crucial step in the job search process that can help you identify the right fit and set yourself up for success in your career. Remember that finding the right cultural fit is just as important as matching your skills and qualifications with a job opportunity, so invest time and effort into learning about a company's internal culture to ensure a fulfilling and rewarding career journey.
