If you recently got a job offer, congratulations! Now you have to decide whether to take it. You probably wouldn’t have gotten this far if you weren’t satisfied with the basic job duties, pay rate, and benefits. But before you say yes, take the time to think through whether the company culture is the right fit. Your day-to-day experience will ultimately play a large role in determining whether you are happy at work. Here are some things to think about.
How to Determine if a Company’s Culture Is Right for You
Your Personal Motivators
Are you at your best when working alone or as part of a team? Do tight deadlines motivate you or paralyze you? Do you need to bounce ideas off other people, or do you find conversation distracting? Think about the times when you have been “in the zone,” and then find out whether the position offers the things you need to get into the zone.
What Makes You Happy
Some of the things that motivate you will likely also make you happy, but it’s not a total overlap. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Do you do your best work in a gorgeous office with a view? Is watercooler talk an important part of your day? Do you prefer frequent short breaks, or would you rather dig into a project and not stop until it’s done? Make sure that the position will not only motivate you but also provide some of the things that make you happy throughout the day.
Scheduling and Lifestyle
You’re probably okay with the basic hours the position requires. But company culture can extend far beyond those hours. Does everyone go out for drinks after work on Wednesdays? Are you expected to stay until the boss goes home each night? Are there deadline weeks during which you’ll need to practically live at work? Is attendance mandatory at holiday parties, retreats, team building activities, and other events outside of the workday? If you’re single and social, you may fit best in an environment with a lot of expectations. If you’re an introvert with a family at home, you may prefer a workplace in which everyone goes in, does the job, and leaves after eight hours.
Every workplace has its own unique culture, and every worker is an individual. Before accepting a job offer, make sure that the environment is one in which you feel motivated and happy, and can fit in with cultural expectations.
Ready for a New Position?
If you’re ready to jumpstart your career, Pirate Staffing can help. Take a look at our open opportunities or simply submit your resume today!
