Job Search Tip of the Week #8 (2019)
Caressa Moy | February 18, 2019 | 9:00 am
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What Makes a Company Stand Out from the Pack?
What makes a company unique? Many might argue that its products, logo, or branding are what makes an organization stand out. However, the true distinguishing factor — at least, for the people who spend each workday there — is the corporate culture. What makes up a company’s culture, and why should potential employees care?
What creates culture
A company’s culture comprises the tangible and intangible characteristics that make that company unique:
- Core values — What values does the company hold dear? More important, what does it expect employees to care about? A company that believes in driven innovation isn’t likely to be a good fit for someone who wants to leave at 5 p.m. to get home to family.
- Environment — Work environments vary greatly — for example, one company may offer a relaxed scenario with shared workspaces and “bring your dog to work” days, while another company has a much more formal atmosphere with cubicles and private offices.
- Communication — How do company leaders convey strategies, policies, and company changes to employees? Is communication transparent, or on a need-to-know basis?
- Dress code — Related to environment, dress codes indicate how strict or relaxed the culture is.
- Perks — Does the company offer team-building, training, and recreational events for employees? Sponsor continuing education programs or professional development opportunities? Perks show what the company thinks (or expects) employees care about.
- Respect — Does the company embrace diversity? Is there mutual respect between company leaders and staff?
- Team spirit — A strong team mentality might translate into willingness to put in extra hours, or create a more family-like atmosphere.
Job Search Tip of the Week #29 (2017)
Caressa Moy | July 17, 2017 | 9:00 am
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How to Snag a Job You’ll Love: Show the Real You
Turns out, your mother was right: “Just be yourself” is excellent advice, especially when pursuing job leads. Recent studies have shown that during a job hunt, being genuine actually leads to better long-term job performance and satisfaction.
According to a 2012 study in The Academy of Management Journal, “Striving for Self-Verification during Organizational Entry,” creating a false interview persona can be detrimental to the hiring process and job retention. On the other hand, candidates who opt for “self-verification,” or being authentic and honest, are much more likely to do well in the interview and land a job they love.
The benefits of being yourself
Think the truth might make you come off too quirky? Think again. “Self-verification in pursuing and landing a job leads to improved job satisfaction and job performance without diminishing the chance that the position will be offered in the first place,” notes the study.
This means that being honest about what you’re looking for and what you can and can’t offer is reassuring for potential employers. Understanding if you’re a good fit for the job benefits everyone, including you. By opening up from the beginning, it saves wasted interview time and ensures that you’re primed to excel in any position you’re offered. It’s a win-win.
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