Company Culture | How to see if it’s the right fit for you

Whilst an interview is your chance to impress an employer, it’s also an opportunity to see if you would be happy working for them.

Asking about company culture isn’t just about curiosity , it’s a strategic move to find out whether the job is right for you. By asking the right questions, you can tell if this is an environment that aligns with your working style, personality and values.

When preparing for a job interview, most candidates focus on how to impress the employer, but remember, interviews are a two-way street!

Culture isn’t always visible in a job description, but it can dramatically impact your daily experience, job satisfaction, and long-term growth. That’s why it’s crucial to ask the right questions about culture during your interview. 

There are some suggested questions below . The answers you get will give you a clearer picture of whether you’ll feel supported, valued, and inspired in your next role. 

1. What opportunities are there for professional development and career growth? 

Asking about professional development shows you’re committed to learning and evolving in your role. It helps you understand if the company invests in its employees through mentorships, promotions, upskilling, or internal mobility. A culture that makes development a priority, wants you to succeed in the long-term. 

2. What is your process for giving feedback, and how often?

This question can give you some insight into the company’s feedback process. While some companies have extensive performance reviews, others might be more relaxed about giving employees feedback. If you’re someone who prefers a lot of structure and support with goal-setting, you may want the employer to have a fully set up feedback system in place. Regardless of the structure, it’s essential to find a company with a process for giving feedback to help you learn how to grow, advance or improve in your role.

3. What kind of team-building activities or events do you organise?

Team-building initiatives can foster stronger relationships and a more positive workplace atmosphere. An employer who values an open and communicative company culture is likely to encourage employees to engage in team-building activities. By participating in fun games, challenges, and events, employees can learn more about each other. Asking this question can help you determine if you may be comfortable participating in the team-building activities the company provides.

4. Are there any programs or initiatives focused on giving back to the community? 

Corporate social responsibility is a key part of many companies’ values today. This question shows your interest in purpose-driven work, and it helps you assess whether the company’s culture includes community involvement, volunteering, or sustainability efforts.  If you are someone who values volunteerism and charity support, asking this question can help you learn if your company values giving back to those in need. See if the interviewer is willing to discuss what organisations or causes the company supports. Some companies even allow employees to take time off to volunteer.

5. How would you describe the management style here? 

Management can make or break your work experience. Often, the manager of the job you’re applying for is your interviewer. Asking them this question can help you tell if their management style aligns with your working style. For instance, when just getting into your field, you may want a manager who is actively involved. But if you’re highly skilled at your job, you may prefer a manager who is more laid back. Listen to their answer carefully to get a true understanding of what they’re like as a manager, as they may discuss both positive and negative traits!

6. What is the dress code?

While you may be able to tell what the dress code is just by looking around, this question can help you learn what the company expects you to wear on a daily basis. While some people don’t mind having to dress up every day, others prefer a more casual and comfortable look. Although this may not be your determining factor when accepting a job offer, it’s still an important thing to find out if its something you are comfortable with!

7. How is employee success acknowledged and celebrated? 

An indicator of a positive work environment is when an employer celebrates their employees’ achievements. Getting recognition for your hard work is a good feeling. By creating a culture of praise and acknowledgment, companies can boost employee morale and improve retention rates. Asking this question helps you learn if the company celebrates achievements, big or small, through bonuses, shoutouts, awards, or career advancement. It also shows if appreciation is part of everyday culture. 

8. What does the onboarding process for new employees look like? 

The onboarding process can be the most important part of setting an employee up for success. When an employer has an extensive onboarding process that involves helping new hires feel welcome, this may be an indicator of a positive company culture. This question will help you understand how the company supports you during those crucial first weeks and whether you’ll be set up to thrive from day one.

9. How Does the Company Approach Work-Life Balance?

Work-life balance is a priority for many candidates. This question helps you understand the company’s policies on flexibility, remote work, or overtime expectations. It shows you care about maintaining a sustainable work environment. The answer can reveal whether the company prioritises employee well-being. If the answer aligns with your needs, express enthusiasm, e.g., “I appreciate flexible hours, as they help me stay productive.”

10. Can you share an example of how the company supports employee mental health and well-being? 

Mental health in the workplace really does matter. By asking this, you can evaluate whether the company takes mental well-being seriously, whether through flexible work policies, access to counselling, mental health days, or simply fostering a healthy work-life balance. 

11. What kind of training or learning programs does the company offer? 

Continuous learning is a sign of a growth-oriented company. This question helps you understand whether the company offers workshops, certifications, courses, or knowledge-sharing sessions to keep employees up to date and evolving.

When you go through Astute Recruitment, your consultant will give you an insight into the company’s culture, which is a valuable advantage, but it’s still important to dig deeper during the interview to ensure the environment truly aligns with your expectations. 

Remember, you’re not just looking for any job. You’re looking for the right one and culture is key.