Adams & Garth Blog

During your job interviews, you may ask a lot of questions about the opening and the company’s vision for the future. But are you also asking questions about workplace culture? If not, you could be in trouble. In fact, as one of Harrisonburg’s leading employment agencies, we know that a primary reason people quit their jobs is because they don’t mesh well with a company’s culture.

So what is workplace culture and how can you ensure you find one that’s a good fit for you? Here are some tips.

What is Workplace Culture?

Workplace culture is akin to a personality. Just like every individual has their own unique personality, so too does every company. For example, some cultures are more creative and flexible; while others are more formal and bureaucratic. Culture is typically comprised of a variety of factors ranging from a company’s dress code to its value system to its expectations for employees.

Questions to Ask to Evaluate Workplace Culture

In order to get an accurate sense of an organization’s culture, you’re going to want to ask a variety of questions, from the management style to whether potential co-workers socialize with each other after work. Here are some sample questions to get you started:

• How are decisions made at the company? How are they communicated to the employees?
• Does the company encourage employees to work in teams, or is it more of an independent environment?
• What are the company’s main objectives for the next few years?
• Is there opportunity for advancement or career growth?
• Do co-workers socialize with one another after work? Or do people come to work, do their jobs, and go home?
• How do employees from different departments interact with each other, if it all?
• Are their certain charitable causes the company supports? Are employees expected to contribute in some way to these causes?
• Overall, how would you describe the company’s workplace culture?

Despite what you might think, your next job isn’t just about salary and benefits. If you’re going to feel productive and happy, then you need to ensure the company’s culture fits with your own personality, values, and expectations.

If you need help finding a job that’s a fit for you all around, from skill level to culture, please contact Adams & Garth. As one of Harrisonburg’s leading employment agencies, we know where the top jobs are and can match you with an opportunity that’s a great fit for your skill level, as well as your personality.

You’ve found a terrific job opportunity in Central Virginia. The position is right up your alley, the pay is great, and the benefits are even better.

But is the company’s culture a good fit for you? In other words, is the mission and core values in line with your own beliefs? If not, you could be in for a rude awakening when you realize that company norms aren’t consistent with your own values.

While no company culture is going to be 100% ideal, there are some things you can do to help ensure you accept a position with an employer that’s a good fit for you. For instance, there are certain questions you can ask during your interview to get a better sense of the culture, such as:

• What is your company’s code of ethics?
• How would you describe the company in three words or less?
• How would you describe the work environment here?
• Are employee accomplishments recognized?
• How would you describe the management style here?
• What are some of the qualities your most successful employees possess?

Also, after the interview, ask yourself these questions:

• How was I treated during the interview?
• What was my gut reaction to the environment? To the interviewer?
• Was the person who interviewed me on time? Prepared?
• How did I feel after the interview? Happy? Excited? Uncertain?

Just as a job interview is an employer’s opportunity to evaluate you, it’s also your chance to evaluate the employer’s work culture. Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions so you can truly assess the position and the company – and decide whether it’s right for you.

And if you need any help finding job openings in Central Virginia, please don’t hesitate to contact Adams & Garth. We can give you detailed information about job opportunities, as well as about potential employers – so you can make a more informed decision.

Most people will change jobs no less than 10 times over the course of their careers. Why? Because today’s worker expects to not only like their work, but to also be fulfilled by it. They want to feel that their efforts contribute to a noble goal and, on top of that, they want the flexibility to blend work and family.

As an employer, it’s a big bill to fill. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Be open and honest.
It’s important to communicate with your employees with honesty, openness, and respect, even when things aren’t going well.

2. Help employee reach their potential.
Employers should strive to bring out the best in their employees – to nurture strengths and properly manage weaknesses.

3. Create a positive company culture.
Some employees thrive in a laid back setting, while others do well in a more structured environment. However, all employees value a positive and ethical environment, where they are free to do their jobs to the best of their abilities, without being micro-managed.

4. Be a visionary leader.
Look ahead to new possibilities and remain open to others’ opinions and ideas. Involve your employees in a dialogue about the future of the company and let them know you value their contributions.

5. Offer opportunities for growth.
Pair younger employees with mentors or company veterans, offer reimbursement for continuing education, or bring in a new speaker on a regular basis who can offer workers valuable information and insight.

6. Lighten up.
Let your employee leave early on a Friday, or have lunch brought in one day for them. You’ll not only bring some joy and relaxation to the workplace, but also show employees you appreciate them.

The bottom line? The key to becoming an employer of choice is to cultivate a workplace that engages people, respects them, and rewards them for their work.