The first step to assess the organizational culture of a new workplace is to observe the physical and social environment. Pay attention to how the workspace is designed, decorated, and organized. Is it formal or casual, open or closed, colorful or dull, tidy or messy? How do people dress, talk, and behave? Are they friendly or distant, relaxed or tense, collaborative or competitive, formal or informal? How do they greet, address, and interact with each other and with external stakeholders? These clues can give you an idea of the dominant values and norms of the organization.