Being one of the newest members of Obsidian’s team, I have had the chance to view positive company culture up close – from the inside and outside. Before graduation, I had no idea what company culture meant or how big of an impact it has on the workplace. Simply put, company culture is the shared feelings of a workplace by all members of the organization. Curiosity about work culture struck me once I saw how important it was during the interview process, and it’s what led to my role as an account assistant here. Let’s discuss three important elements of company culture and how it stands out during the hiring process. 

Satisfaction

It’s pretty simple to tell if employees are happy with their roles and if the organization values them as a member of the team. From my first interview at Obsidian, I could tell from employee interactions that this was a place people enjoyed working. Through various activities like escape rooms and holiday wreath-making, Obsidian knows how to keep fun in the workplace. Keeping things fun boosts general camaraderie and improves workplace communication by up to 50%. A good balance between work and play is essential, but when you can have fun at work, that’s when you know you’ve hit the jackpot. 

Values

Company culture and values go hand in hand. Getting involved in the mission of the company provides a sense of purpose, especially if you can apply the values to your own life. When there is a bigger mission or vision for the future, employees are inspired to look forward to their role in their company. Studies have even proven that mission-based companies are more likely to retain employees. One way to implement values early on is to ask questions in your initial interview about values and see if a candidate’s answers align with yours. It not only helps you protect your corporate values, but it lets the interviewee know that you care about practices and causes that matter to them. After answering a bunch of resume-related questions at various companies, I was relieved when the members of Obsidian asked me deeper questions and truly wanted to know my answers. 

Benefits

Now that we’ve delved into the lighter parts of corporate culture, it’s time to look at the facts. Providing benefits that adhere to your employees’ needs conveys that they are cared for. It’s also a way to show interviewees that you put your money where your mouth is. Anyone can talk about how they have a great workplace culture, but when I heard the concrete evidence of company perks at Obsidian, I was sold. Company outings once a month, stellar retirement and health care benefits, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and even getting off the clock an hour early on Fridays simply show that employees are valued. Creating an atmosphere of work/life balance and team bonding are attractive when someone is interested in employment at your company. Obsidian knows how to keep us happy, and the culture and benefits motivate me to do my absolute best. 

It really is in your best interest to commit to establishing a positive work environment, whether you are an interviewee, employer or employee. If you are hiring, it’s something you can brag about to potential prospects. If you are on the hunt for a job, it’s a quality to look out for. Either way, company culture is something to pay attention to no matter what your position is. Do your part to connect to the values of your company and with your co-workers, and you may be surprised at the benefits.