Getting company culture right: Why it matters before you hire

‘Company culture’ isn't just some trendy buzzword.?

It's the heartbeat of your organization, and it can make or break your business.?

I've seen firsthand how a positive culture can light a fire under employees, boost productivity, and spark innovation.?

But here's the kicker: culture is also key to keeping your best people around for the long haul.

Before you even think about bringing new folks on board, you need to get a grip on your current culture and figure out where you want to take it.?

Trust me, it'll save you a ton of headaches down the road.?

So, let's dive into how you can really understand and level up your company culture.

What the heck is company culture, anyway?

In a nutshell, company culture is the secret sauce that makes your organization tick.?

It's the values, beliefs, and unwritten rules that shape how work gets done.?

You know, the "that's just how we do things around here" vibe. And it seeps into everything - from how decisions are made to how people interact and get stuff done.

Getting a handle on your culture

Take a good, hard look

1. Ask your people: Don't be afraid to get real feedback from your team. Run surveys, set up focus groups, or just chat with folks over coffee. Ask them what they think about the company's values, how people communicate, and what it's really like to work there.
2. Keep your eyes peeled: Pay attention to how people interact. Are they collaborating or working in silos? Is the dress code super formal, or is everyone rocking jeans and t-shirts? These little things can tell you a lot.
3. Exit interviews are gold: When someone leaves, pick their brain. They'll often spill the tea on cultural issues you might not see from the inside.

Figure out what really matters

• Walk the talk: Take a look at your company's stated values. Now, be honest - do they match up with what's actually happening day-to-day? If you say you're all about innovation but people get chewed out for taking risks, something's off.
• Leadership check: Your top dogs need to embody the culture you're going for. If they're not walking the walk, nobody else will either.

Know your strengths (and weaknesses)

• What's working? Maybe you've got a killer collaborative vibe, or people feel really supported. Celebrate those wins!
• Where are the cracks? Be real about where things need work. Low morale? Communication breakdowns? High turnover? Don't sweep it under the rug.

Time to level up your culture

Nail down those values

1. Get crystal clear: Define your values in a way that actually means something. None of that generic corporate speak - make it real and relevant to your company.
2. Shout it from the rooftops: Don't just stick your values in some forgotten handbook. Talk about them in meetings, put them on the walls, weave them into your everyday conversations.

Leaders, step up

• Actions speak louder than words: Your big wigs need to live and breathe those values every single day. When the boss walks the talk, everyone else follows suit.
• Give props where they're due: When someone embodies your values, make a big deal out of it. A little recognition goes a long way in reinforcing the culture you want.

Open those lines of communication

• Create a feedback loop: Whether it's town halls, an anonymous suggestion box, or regular one-on-ones, give people a way to speak up.
• Don't just listen - act: When people give you feedback, do something with it. Nothing kills morale faster than feeling like your voice doesn't matter.

Invest in your people

• Level up those skills: Offer training that aligns with your values. Maybe it's leadership workshops, diversity and inclusion sessions, or technical skills bootcamps.
• Show them a future: People stick around when they can see a path forward. Work with your team to map out where they can go in the company.

Work-life balance isn't just a catchphrase

• Flexible is the future: One-size-fits-all doesn't cut it anymore. Offer remote options, flexible hours, or job-sharing if you can.
• Care about the whole person: Think beyond just work stuff. Wellness programs, mental health resources, family-friendly policies - show your people you've got their back.

Keep tabs and tweak

• Regular check-ups: Do cultural health checks to see how things are going and where you might need to adjust.
• Stay nimble: As your company grows and changes, your culture needs to evolve too. Be ready to adapt when needed.

Also read: Positive candidate experience & organizational culture: How to retain the top talent

Wrapping it up

Look, nailing company culture isn't a "set it and forget it" kind of thing. It takes ongoing effort, commitment, and a willingness to change course when needed.?

But get it right, and you'll have a team that's fired up, productive, and in it for the long haul.

Remember, a solid culture isn't just nice to have - it's the foundation for your company's success.?

So before you start bringing new folks on board, make sure you've got your cultural ducks in a row. Trust me, your future self (and your employees) will thank you for it.

Author’s bio

Shlomo Meisels is the CEO and founder of SM Staffing, a recruiting agency that services companies across the US.?

SM Staffing focuses on matching clients with candidates who are a fit not only on paper but also in terms of personality.?

Their culture-matching process results in a higher retention rate and a much happier and more productive work environment.