In a job interview, there are those requisite questions employers expect to hear from candidates. One of the most common: “How would you describe your company culture?”
But instead of breezing through the topic, companies need to understand how important their response is to prospective employees. It can mean the difference between an offer being accepted or declined — and even influence a business’ long-term success.
Our 2021 Salary Guide revealed accounting and finance professionals ranked company culture as one of the top reasons they choose a new role and stay with a company — proving the concept is much more than a buzzword. As the growing millennial labor force sets the tone for the workplace, it looks like we’re playing by their rules. Values matter. Finding purpose in a professional role matters. And locking down a position that embraces both of these principles? Yes, that definitely matters.
“Today, employees aren’t looking for the highest paying job or the best boss first,” says Century Group’s Talent Acquisition department. “They want to be at a place where flexibility, professional development and the culture of the company are aligned with their own personal interests.”
We break down company culture and its impact below:
With the internet’s relentless noise, a strong culture is essential to establishing a unique voice. “Job functions and responsibilities of a particular job are the same at all organizations,” the Talent Acquisition department explains. “But the one thing that sets it apart is the company culture.” Put simply: An organization’s culture also functions as its brand. It should successfully translate the company’s values and goals — giving applicants (and employees) a clear idea of who you are.
Everyone wants to feel like they belong. Add the incentive of contributing to a shared goal, and you have a solid foundation for a productive company culture. “It sets expectations for success, core values and minimizes failure.”
The word is out. With online platforms like Yelp, Glassdoor and Trip Advisor, people can easily share their experiences with the world with a single tap of a smartphone. More importantly: the world listens. Job seekers regularly utilize these type of sites to gauge a company’s reputation — attracting (or detracting) talented professionals at a moment’s glance. Organizations should make their values a transparent priority to help draw other employees who believe in those values, too, Century Group says. And, will hopefully keep them there long-term. “When a company culture is the priority of a company, employees see that and know that they are important and valued.”
Download Century Group’s 2021 Salary Guide for additional industry evaluations and key insights relevant to today’s financial professionals. Looking for top talent to transform your team? Contact our recruiters today.
