REASON: Culture is the shared set of values and behaviors that define an organization and can be an important part of the mutual evaluation of ‘fit’. However, when using non-work-related activities to describe culture, organizations may be unintentionally alienating individuals. For example, organizations that describe their culture with happy hours and holiday parties may not resonate with those who don’t drink alcohol or those with obligations that keep them from partaking in after-hour social events. Social events are great, but rarely are required for success on a job or for an individual to ‘fit in’ with the culture. When listing social activities, adding terms like ‘optional’ can make a big difference to those that can’t or don’t want to participate. Adding variety to the example events, such as pot-lucks, volunteer days, and family picnics will give the impression that all sorts of preferences are welcomed in the organization.
Missed a previous tip? They're all here! Have one to share? Please share it!