Fresh out of college and full of ambition, I found myself facing the daunting task of securing employment post-graduation. At the time, I lived in a small town and resorted to working with a temp agency. After months of searching, I landed a contract gig at a fortune 500 company.
The company, a major player in the food and beverage industry has a solid reputation, but the location leaves little to be desired. There were no shops nearby; you needed 15 minutes by car to reach "downtown" leaving you with 15 minutes left on your lunch break.
The first week was grueling. And I admit there were times I cried in the parking lot, many times. The company embraced the concept on an open work environment, which was foreign to me. The company believed that an open floor plan promoted productivity, because you literally cannot hide from anyone. Personal phone conversations became everyone's business. I recall looking over my laptop and seeing nothing but a sea of faces either staring down or looking right back at me.
While they provided us with gourmet snacks including "jean's day" once a month, the truth is, it wasn't the right fit. I desired to work with a younger, innovative company, preferably in the city. At the time I knew nothing about corporate culture, but I understand it's importance now. What is corporate culture? Corporate culture refers to a set of norms, values and beliefs that a company adheres to in order to define its identity, guide its actions and shape its interactions both internally and externally.
It's essential for individuals to assess their own values, work style, and career aspirations, and seek out companies whose corporate culture aligns with their preferences. Companies should also strive to communicate their culture effectively during the recruitment process, ensuring that potential hires have a clear understanding of what to expect.
Ultimately, finding the right match between individual and organizational culture is crucial for fostering engagement, satisfaction, and mutual success. Good luck on your journey!
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