Company culture has become something of a buzzword in many HR and professional circles in recent years, and for good reason. With
94% of executives and 88% of employees saying that a distinct workplace culture is important to business success, it’s clear that an organisation’s culture has a lot to answer for. So while
opportunities for development, a fair salary and a supportive manager will no doubt remain factors when you’re job hunting, you’ll also want to consider the atmosphere and community your work offers. Here’s why:
Having friends at work can make you more productive
While you don’t have to be best friends with everyone you work with, it’s important to at least like most of your colleagues. Not only will it make coming to work feel much easier every day, but it could even make you more productive. In fact, people who have a best friend at work are
43% more likely to have received recognition and praise for their work, showing that being friendly with your peers can lead to better work performance and results. Another study has found that happy people are
12% more productive, proving that a friendly, cheerful workforce can get things done more effectively and efficiently. Look for organisations that put people first and pride themselves on hiring employees who are not only hard workers, but also great people to work with.
The right culture can inspire teams
Your corporate culture is about more than just the benefits available and the general ‘vibe’ of the office. It can also show you the driving force behind a company, inspiring workers and supporting the overall success of the business. For example, a company culture that celebrates success at all levels, encourages personal development and welcomes questions and new ideas can combine with the overall strategy to drive great business results. Meanwhile, a culture with a very restrictive hierarchy and where new ideas aren’t nurtured can not only lead to disengagement within teams, but poor business results too. When you’re job hunting, look for an opportunity where everyone seems to be valued and working towards the same visions and beliefs.
Company culture can determine whether you like your job
While there are many factors that come into play when it comes to overall job satisfaction, organisational culture – and how you fit into it – can play a significant part in how much you like your job. Anyone who’s ever worked somewhere with a culture that is misaligned with their own values will know this to be true –
nearly half of all candidates looking for new positions say that company culture is the main reason for their move.
When you’re in a job that feels right, you’ll likely be more motivated, engaged and ultimately satisfied in your work. Look at the beliefs and values your potential new workplace’s leaders uphold, and evaluate whether these flow through the company in a positive way. Things like work-life balance, happiness of existing employees, collaboration and engaged leadership can all point towards a positive culture you’ll feel at home in.
Join us
Company culture is important to us at npower, where people are at the core of everything we do. We know that we’re only as good as our team, and we believe in sharing success together and encouraging a team dynamic as much as possible. Sound like you? Find out more about
working for us, or take a look at our
latest vacancies.