Tag Archives: culture

How to Interview for Cultural Fit

From the Ask Tom mailbag. Question When you talked about interviewing for “fit” with our company culture, you said that we should interview for behaviors. I understand what you mean, but I don’t know what the questions sound like. Response … Continue reading

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How to Communicate Company Culture

“I need each of you to become an author,” I said. The management team looked at each other. I saw a set of eyes roll in the corner. I smiled. “I need each of you to write a story.” I … Continue reading

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How to Create Interview Questions on Culture

As I walked through the entry way to the lobby, I noticed Miguel had posted the list of values in a cheap plastic frame next to the Mission Statement. I ducked into the conference room. Miguel sat up. “I know, … Continue reading

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How to Connect Values to Behaviors

“It’s a good list,” said Miguel. The list had emerged from a values exercise the week before. After an extensive word pairing process, some heavy lobbying, push back, protest and negotiation, this was the list that made it. “So, now … Continue reading

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How to Define Company Values

Twenty three people milled about the room. We had gathered together to talk about culture. Culture is that unwritten set of rules that governs our behavior as we work together. With such a large group, from vice-presidents to managers to … Continue reading

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How to Build Intentional Culture

The management team was assembled in the conference room. Culture was the topic of the day. “You can either try to get people on board with your culture, or you can build the culture that people want to get on … Continue reading

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How Do You Interview for Teamwork?

“There is just something about this candidate that I can’t put my finger on,” Wendy was skeptical. “Everything checks out. This person has the technical skills, the necessary experience, seems enthusiastic, but there is something. On paper, this person should … Continue reading

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How Does Culture Retain the Team?

Ray was looking at his list. “So, I can count on losing this person. They already gave their notice. And I know they will continue to have contact with the other team members, so I know they will talk with … Continue reading

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In Conflict with an Official Rule?

“Why is culture important?” I asked. “It’s the way things are,” Ryan explained. “It’s that unwritten set of rules that governs our behavior, that determines the way we work together.” “And why is it important?” I repeated. “Every company has … Continue reading

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