When starting a new job, it is natural to feel nervous about whether you will fit into the company culture. It is not only natural, but it is prudent. Nearly ninety percent of failures in the hiring process occur because the new employee doesn’t fit the organization’s culture.
How do you ensure you will adapt to the culture successfully? Follow these tips.
- Research the Culture
Although culture is often made up of rules and attitudes that are not written down anywhere, there are ways to research the culture before you even set foot in the door. If you know anyone in the company, ask them directly about the culture. You can even ask the human resources department.
Clues to the culture can also be found on the web. Read all of the organization’s website. These often include sections on history and mission. Look for any pictures of the workplace. Are people dressed formally, for example, or does it look as if the dress is casual?
Search for employees of the company on LinkedIn. Look at their backgrounds and interests as a key to what the company culture will be like.
- Be Social at Work
The people you work with can be excellent guides to the company culture. If there is a group that roots for one baseball team in the World Series, for example, it can let you know a lot about the company’s culture. You will want to have an open mind. Try to join the group’s interests and enthusiasms.
Chat with your co-workers from the first minute. Remember, it is as important as learning your job duties. If you are asked to happy hour or to grab lunch, definitely say yes. You will learn about your co-workers and the culture.
- Keep on Learning
Company cultures can be complex, so all your learning and adaption is not going to take place in the first few weeks. Keep on observing cultural cues and signals.
If there are holiday parties, for example, those can be great opportunities to learn the informal rules of the organization. So can volunteering for charitable causes the company sponsors.
Looking for a Company That Fits You Better?
Because fit with a corporation is so important, it is one of the factors you might be thinking of in a job search. A staffing agency can help you get a sense of a company’s culture. Nesco Resource can help you find a job. Contact us today to speak to a professional.
