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How to discover a company’s actual culture

Date:August 11, 2020

Having a job means so much more than simply receiving a paycheck at the end of the month. A good employer will give you the opportunity to grow personally as well as professionally while working on a career that you love. As every company has its own unique company culture, it’s just as important to find a working environment that fits your personality as it is to find a position that suits your skill set.

A company’s culture informs every aspect of what it does, from its goals and mission to its expectations, ethics and values. Therefore, it’s important for both the employer and the employee that there’s a good fit.

A company’s culture informs every aspect of what it does, from its goals and mission to its expectations, ethics and values.

But in order to really get to know a company’s culture, you’re going to have to go beyond the about us-section on their website. The best way to learn more about a certain company’s culture is to get in touch and to openly speak with people who actually work there.

Talk to the people who work there

Friends, family, acquaintances: If you know someone from the top of your head who works for the employer you are interested in, they should definitely be your first call.

Check your alumni office: If you don’t have any contacts as far as you know, it might be a good idea to check with your alumni office or careers service.

Leverage your LinkedIn network: Last (but definitely not least), check LinkedIn. Are there any connections (first or second degree) to the company you can contact? If so, don’t hesitate. No doubt that our consultants would be happy to tell you about us!

Key questions

Once you figured out who to talk to let’s have a closer look at what exactly you’re going to ask them.

  • Here’s a short list of questions that will definitely get your conversation started:
  • What do you like most about working at this company?
  • How would you describe the work environment?
  • What is the reporting structure like?
  • What kind of personality traits thrive the most in your organisation?
  • What's the preferred communications style?
  • How are accomplishments recognised?
  • How much feedback do team members receive?
  • Does the company engage in social responsibility programmes?

The Projective Group culture

But what about our company culture? Our determination to invest in our team is reflected in everything we do. If you’d like to learn more about our company culture and values, you should definitely check out our career site and culture book.

Final Thoughts

A job should never be just a job. Before you accept a position, ensure there is a good fit between the company’s culture and your personality. This will definitely help you reach your future goals. On occasion, this may mean passing up an opportunity at a place you feel may otherwise be a great fit for your skills.

Anyway, best of luck! And if you do like the sound of our company culture, why not have a quick look at our website and jobpage?

About Projective Talent

As part of Projective Group, Projective Talent connects ambitious professionals with leading financial services companies, opening doors to career-defining opportunities. Whether through traineeships that transition into long-term roles with our clients, or missions that offer flexible assignments, we ensure the right fit for both candidates and businesses.

With access to A+ clients, expert coaching, and a strong professional network, we help talent and companies grow together - fuelling careers, innovation, and long-term success.