How to Choose a New Job Based on Workplace Culture

What do job seekers value most when looking for a new position? According to recent figures, workplace culture is one of the most important aspects that candidates consider when applying for a new role. More than half of job seekers value culture even more than salary!

Indeed describes workplace culture as “a collection of attitudes, beliefs and behaviors that make up the regular atmosphere in a work environment”. Finding a workplace with an atmosphere that helps employees flourish can make teams more engaged, more productive, and more profitable. There is no denying that workplace culture is important – but how do you decide what kind of culture is right for you?

TRG Staffing Solutions has some top tips for choosing a company based on their workplace culture.

Consider what you value

While there may be overlapping similarities, the ideal workplace will look different for everyone. One of the first steps in determining a suitable workplace culture is to take a step back and evaluate exactly what is important. While every company is different, some common overarching culture types include:

• Competitive Culture: success is driven by friendly competition among workers
• Hands-off Culture: workers are more or less left to their own devices; little to no micromanaging
• Collaborative Culture: workers of all levels collaborate and support one another towards success

Different people thrive in different environments. Candidates should consider whether their personal working style will match that of the company they are applying to be part of. Finding the perfect match can be key to contentment in the long term.

Look at their online presence

Loads of valuable information can be found on the Internet. Taking time to review the company’s website and referral pages will provide an insight into what they do, as well as their heritage.

In addition, looking at the language used in online profiles can help form perceptions of the overall brand. Does the organization seem formal or laid-back? Is their tone authoritative or conversational?

In the digital age, many firms take to social media to connect with potential candidates – it’s estimated that around 84% of companies are using social media as a recruitment tool. By browsing an employer’s social media accounts, job seekers are able to get a feel for what it might be like to work there.

• How active are they on social media?
• How engaging is their content?
• How do they respond to followers’ comments?

Ask questions

Perhaps the most straightforward way to learn about a company’s organizational culture is to simply ask them! Asking the people who work at the company or have worked there in the past is a great way to gain anecdotal information. Sending a polite email with a few questions or giving the office a call can often yield results.

Online reviews are also a great source of information – nine out of ten consumers read online reviews before deciding to purchase a product or service from a business. Take a peek at company reviews on Google to see what customers have to say, or head to job sites like Indeed and Glassdoor to hear the opinions of past employees.

Work with a staffing agency

One of the best sources of intel regarding the professional world is the people who work closely with employers. Staffing agencies have a wealth of insider knowledge about their clients that can help candidates make more informed decisions about their next career move.

Recruiters act as liaisons between candidate and employer and can help job seekers find good matches, both in terms of technical compatibility and cultural fit. It is in the staffing agency’s best interest to make long-lasting matches, so recruiters are unlikely to put a candidate forward for a role unless it is an appropriate fit.

TRG Staffing Solutions has helped countless deserving job seekers find positions that truly work for them. Want to learn more about what we do? Contact us today.