5 Interview Questions to Identify Company Culture Before You Commit

CompanyCulture_April2013_webAccording to Workforce.com, 75% of job seekers who responded to a survey stated that company culture is as important as salary. For most companies, the easiest way to define their culture is through a mission statement and values or a code of ethics. This information is usually easily found on a company website or within recruiting materials. But as you’re looking for the right fit, how can you know the culture they portray is really lived out in their office?  Here are five questions to ask in an interview that can help you get a glimpse of their company’s culture in action.

    1. Are employees awarded for exemplifying company culture, values, or mission?
      This question looks at two things. First, if a company has an awards program, and second, how much importance is placed on values, a mission, or a culture. Typically, behavior that is rewarded is behavior that is exhibited. So if a company is really focused on something, they’ll design an awards program around it. By asking about employee recognition or investigating their website or social networks for things like an employee of the month, you can get insight into what the company deems important. If the answer to this question is no, ask what type of awards are given to get an idea of what recognition programs are in place.
    2. What’s the biggest period of change this company has undergone?
      Understanding how a company handles periods of change – be it in technology, product development, reorganizations, sales strategies, or more – can demonstrate how the culture guides the organization. A company’s mission statement and stated values are often the guiding factors for decision making, so ask specifically what role the interviewer played during the change. Going through a large change is often a high pressure situation; some companies thrive in this environment while others may try to avoid change at all costs. Depending on your own personality, the attitude toward change could help you decide if you’ll feel comfortable in that company. 
    3. How was the company founded and do the founders still play a role today?
      A culture within a business isn’t developed overnight, but often began with the inception of the organization. Understanding the mission under which the company was founded and the spirit of those who began the company can help you understand the tone of the company. 
    4. What is the decision making process in this company?
      When you ask this, don’t limit it to the hiring process. Depending on your role, you’ll want to know how decisions are made and who is involved making them before you take a job. If this question seems too broad, ask for a specific example of a how challenge was solved and what the decision making process was for implementing a solution. A well-defined decision making process can make things less stressful, and allow you to complete your tasks with confidence and efficiency. 
    5. Can you share an example of a time when the company’s values impacted your own role?
      Asking for specific examples about how a position like the one you are interviewing for was impacted by the company’s values can give you a glimpse into company life and lets you learn more about the person you’re interviewing with. Plus, the answer can let you see how big of a role the values of the organization play in the daily functions of employees.

While finding the right job includes everything from matching skills, schedules, work environments, and more, it’s important not to discount finding the right culture fit. The culture of the company can impact every facet of the job, and is the aspect of the job that is least likely to change.

As a job seeker, how do you investigate a company’s culture? Share your ideas in the comments section below.

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Rachel Rudisill


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