Finding the right fit, culturally speaking

Finding the right fit, culturally speaking Have you ever found yourself in a company and realized that it isnt right for you?   You may feel it is dysfunctional, managements communication style is harsh, you have different values from your co-workers, theres no opportunity for growth, or whatever? Can you change any of the things you dont like about the company?   Not easily.   And even if you could, how long would it take for those changes to come about?   Maybe longer than you would want to be there. Usually, we dont notice these differences during the interview process.   There may be glimpses of some, but typically we tend to ignore the signs.   Just as employers have difficulty defining what they are looking for in a candidate, so do we have difficulty identifying what we want from an employer. Here is a way for you to begin assessing what is most important to you in your next role. Select your preference from each category. Rank in order of importance your top 3. How decisions get made Centralized decision-making Decentralized decision-making How teams/individuals work together Cooperative atmosphere Internal competition Is there a career path Well-defined career path Flexible career opportunities Whats the work environment like Casual atmosphere Formal atmosphere How is my role defined Clearly defined responsibilities Varied/fluid responsibilities Process and procedures Loosely defined procedures Formalized procedures Communicating company goals Clear, well-communicated vision Flexible, adaptable corporate goals Whats important to the company Focus on public good Focus on company success How does the company recognize good work Individual performance-based rewards Team-based rewards Now that you have determined your top 3, begin crafting questions to ask during an interview or while networking that will shed insight on the answers.   I dont mean asking questions like, Does your company have centralized or decentralized decision-making?   Instead, the question may sound like: When requisitions need to be signed, what is the process and then, How long does that typically take?   Ask the employer the same type of Situational questions they are asking you in interviewstell me about a time when one of your employees was recognized for an accomplishment. For those employed, can you do  what it takes to change the culture or will you begin looking for the next great employment opportunity? If you decide to stay, what will the short-term implications be?   Will you disengage and become less productive?   Will you argue with management, will you disagree with co-workers, will you become negative on the job?   These are dangerous behaviors that can/will lead to termination, so be careful. Fit and belonging is our responsibility.   We can either move on or adapt our expectations and behavior. Have you ever had a bad fit?   Let me know.