Work Culture: What Does It Mean To You?
These aren’t just buzzwords, What does Culture and Support mean to you?
In the famous words of Jerry Macguire, “Show me the Money”! (Yes, I’m showing my age here lol). Once upon a time, that’s what motivated most people to move jobs. While salary still matters, what’s driving people today has shifted dramatically.
Now its all about Culture and Support! But here’s the thing, these things can mean something different to everyone, this isn’t just a get out of answering the question thing to say. As a hiring manager I would want to know, What does this mean to you?
As a candidate, it’s worth getting clear on what you mean by great culture and real support. Is it flexibility, trust, recognition, or simply working with good humans?
As an employer, when attracting candidates, it’s about moving away from the buzzwords and show how your brand brings these things to life every day! If culture is something you feel like you are still working on, then acknowledge that.
Because culture isn’t a definition it’s a feeling and the connection. If you’re a employer thinking about the culture of your business perhaps have a think about the below:
Team being Heard – a place where they can speak up, ask questions, and make mistakes without fear.
Team connection – people who genuinely get along, collaborate, and have each other’s backs.
Respect and Integrity– consistency in how people are treated, regardless of position and no cliques.
Having Purpose– a belief that what they’re doing matters, and that they’re part of something bigger than just hitting KPIs. Brand Ambassadors are built because of pride.
Glass Half Full – leaders who lead with empathy, teams who celebrate wins, and an environment that feels motivating.
Flexibility – being understanding and being a good human first.
If you’re a candidate saying you left your business due to lack of support – have a think about what it was you were wanting. Was it:
Present leadership – managers who coach, listen, and you know they’re there if you have a question.
Progression - this could also mean pathways of further learning and development, to learn and grow.
Clear communication – knowing what’s expected, having regular feedback, and a leader who doesn’t beat around the bush with how you are going. These its of feedback can be hard to hear, but later on you will look an go I’m glad they cared enough to tell me.
Recognition and encouragement – a simple “you’re doing a great job” goes a long way.
So, whether you’re hiring or searching for your next dream role the goal’s the same for the candidate and the employer! Find the place and people that make culture and support more than just words on a wall. Its not something one person can do by themselves, but most effective when people come together.
If you’d like to connect with Sharna to find your dream role or to become a new client of ours we would love to connect, please email Sharnav@thetalentmill.com.au today.
By Sharna Vantarakis // Edited By Shannon Parsons