How to Learn About a Company's Culture Before You Start Working There

By Rafael Maga?a

Making the most money possible is no longer something that most people base their hiring decisions on. Modern workers want to feel fulfilled in their work and know that their values are in line with those of their employers. If you want to ensure that the company you're considering working for has a positive culture and will be an enjoyable place to work, it's smart to take some time to do some research on that company before the hiring process begins. Here are some tips on how to do just that.

Have Questions Prepared

Before you schedule an interview with your prospective employer, put together a list of questions that you have regarding the culture they try to create in the workplace. The more specific these questions are, the better you'll be able to gauge whether the company is in sync with your personal values and beliefs. Plus, employers are oftentimes impressed with job candidates who come to an interview with questions and will be glad to answer them.

Look through Their Company Website

Take some time to browse the website of the company you're considering working for. Most company websites have About Us pages or other content that provides details regarding how the company came to be, its goals for the future and even bios for some of its current staff members. Be sure to also look for any information that may be available through the human resources section of the website.

Meet with Current Employees

Try to meet with anyone you know who currently works for your potential employer. Asking your family members, friends, and acquaintances if they know anyone who works there is always a good idea as well. Talking with people directly about their experience at the company is one of the most effective and accurate ways to determine if that company would be the right fit for you.

See What Employees Are Saying Online

In the same way that meeting with someone who works at the company you're interested in is a great idea, looking for reviews posted by their employees online is also an excellent resource. There are many review websites available to you that will feature reviews of employers written by their current and past staff members. If you're concerned with the culture at a particular company, make sure to pay close attention to employee reviews that are more specific to that subject matter as opposed to pay rate alone.

These are just a few of the many ways you can determine whether or not a company has a culture you can relate to and feel comfortable in. By looking online for reviews left by employees, meeting with people you know who work for the company you're thinking about joining, thinking of your own questions for the hiring process, and exploring their company website thoroughly, you'll set yourself up for the most fulfilling employment situation possible.

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Copyright March 12, 2019 by Rafael Maga?a. Contact for usage license.

Rafael Maga?a helps organizations grow. Helps leaders accelerate strategy implementation in their organizations. Specializes in donor-centered Philanthropy. Major Gift Officer -Veritus Scholar. Director of Development & Communications at BREATHE California of Los Angeles County. Director of Development at the Emphysema Foundation of America. Enjoys writing about leadership, management and careers. Founder of Latino Professionals, Latina Professionals, & Latinx Professionals. He resides in California. Follow Rafael on LinkedIn (16,200+ followers) and on Twitter: @RafaelMagana

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