Starting a New Job? Don't Overlook These 5 Aspects of Company Culture

As a retailer, you understand the importance of adapting to the ever-changing landscape. With new technologies and consumer behaviours constantly emerging, staying ahead of the game is essential. But what about when you start a new job? How can you ensure you're adapting to and thriving within the new company culture?

According to a recent Harvard Business Review article, you should pay attention to five critical aspects of company culture when starting a new job. These aspects include the company's mission and values, communication style, decision-making processes, work style and pace, and social norms.

But how do these aspects apply to the retail industry? Let's take a look at a real-life example from the industry.

In 2015, Target Corporation appointed Brian Cornell as their new CEO. Cornell had extensive experience in the retail industry, having previously served as CEO of PepsiCo Americas Foods and Sam's Club. Upon joining Target, Cornell quickly realized that the company needed help with its culture. Employees were demotivated, and the company's financial performance was suffering.

Cornell knew he needed to change the company culture to turn things around. He started by redefining the company's mission and values, focusing on putting the customer first. He also emphasized the importance of communication, encouraging employees to speak up and share their ideas.

But the most significant change Cornell implemented was in the company's decision-making processes. He recognized that Target's previous culture had been too hierarchical, with decisions being made at the top and filtered down to lower-level employees. Cornell wanted to empower employees at all levels to make decisions and take ownership of their work. He implemented a new decision-making framework that encouraged collaboration and input from all levels of the organization.

The results of Cornell's efforts were impressive. Target's financial performance improved, and employee morale skyrocketed. By paying attention to the critical aspects of company culture, Cornell was able to transform Target's culture and set the company up for success.

So, what can we learn from Cornell's example? When starting a new job in the retail industry, paying attention to the company's mission and values, communication style, decision-making processes, work style and pace, and social norms is essential. By understanding these aspects of the company culture, you can adapt quickly and thrive within your new role.

But don't just take our word for it. Look at the Harvard Business Review article for more insights on navigating company culture when starting a new job.

#RetailIndustry #CompanyCulture #NewJob #Leadership