The question of "fit"

Reflecting on my career experiences and hard lessons learned, I've pondered why certain environments, where I expected to fit seamlessly, didn't quite embrace my uniqueness.?

Here are my reflections:

?? Organisations showcase their best fa?ade during interviews, but it's crucial to look beyond the brand and consider the people you'll interact with daily. Authentic human connections matter more than a glossy image.

??Beware of matrix structures – getting sold on one superior's leadership skills, the endless opportunities to sponge off them might lead to overlooking another's influence. Dive deeper into understanding relationships and personalities to make informed decisions.

??The elusive question of organisational culture often leads to vague answers. Cultures evolve, and aspirations may not align with reality. We’re often sold the aspirational culture and not what is. Honesty in defining the true culture is vital to avoid mismatched expectations.

??Candidates are often judged solely by their past employers. Each person is unique, and accomplishments within a notable organisation don't automatically define the individual or their worth. Ask the right questions to understand the person, not just their repertoire of organisations they've been privileged to serve at.

Certain individuals are more predisposed to thrive within specific organizations or teams.

Some entities tend to favor individuals skilled in navigating office politics over those who strictly adhere to meritocratic principles.

Recognising and understanding this distinction enhances the process of selecting individuals who align with the organisational culture and dynamics.

The challenge of assimilating not only affects the employee but also extends its impact to their families. We often carry our struggles and experiences into our personal spheres, inadvertently burdening those who deserve the best of our attention and presence. Diversity isn't just about race or gender; it includes personality differences. Are organisations ready to embrace these differences??

Expect a follow up article on our responsibility towards ourselves in determining fit.