Interviewing for Company Culture

How should we discuss company culture in a job interview?

The job market is heating up as the temperatures outside are cooling down. I am hearing from network contacts that they have recently accepted job offers after being out of work for most of 2024.

While a job provides a paycheck, the place where we invest a significant amount of our time and energy should be more than just a J.O.B. Understanding the company culture during the interview process is crucial. It's not just about asking questions; it's about you actively shaping your future workplace.

In her article on MSN, Jennifer Liu provides three alternatives to discovering the company culture, as shared in an interview with Brianna Doe:

- What are the common themes that you find among your highest performers?

You will gain insight from the interviewer on what it takes to thrive at the company.

- What would the first 30 days look like for the person in this role?

You will gain an understanding of what you're walking into, how much support you'll get, learning the ropes of your role and the business, and the expectations of your hiring manager and team.

- What are some ways that success will be measured in the first 90 days? In the first year?

You will gain more precise expectations of what goals you'll be expected to hit, and you might feel more set up for success early on.

Doe says, "You can't be successful if they haven't defined success in the first place."

To read the full article: Stop asking 'What is the company culture like?' in job interviews—3 better alternatives (msn.com)