How to read a company’s tea leaves
May 3, 2018
By Brian Maynor
This skill isn’t as much about predicting the future as it is divining the company’s culture.
After joining a new company there is only a brief window to assess and acclimate to their culture, and that’s typically 90 days. While that may seem like plenty of time, a lot of people often struggle with this process, because they are either too focused on their job to notice or they dismiss the importance of adapting to their new environment. On top of that, leaders rarely set out cultural expectations and guidelines.
Success, especially at a new company, depends not only on our work performance, but also on recognizing and adapting to how our colleagues work.
Authors Allan Church and Jay Conger researched this situation and found these were main areas of company culture on which to focus:
1. Relationships. Every company is different when it comes to building and maintaining relationships with coworkers and management. Some value collaboration and face time while others prioritize electronic communications and virtual meetings. The best way to avoid a misstep right off the bat is to ask a seasoned colleague, and pay attention to how they interact with others in the company.
2. Communication. The flow of information tends to fall into one of two categories: structured or spontaneous. Structured communication protocols center around meetings that are often scheduled well in advance, with attendees being well prepared. Spontaneous communication protocols are less formal and don’t require as much prep work. Aside from experience, assistants are great resources when it comes to deciphering company calendars and expectations.
3. Decision-Making. Much like communication, when it comes to decision-making companies tend to fall into one of two categories: one where decisions are made in real-time during formal meetings, and one where they are made afterwards in informal meetings. The best way to figure out which category a company uses is to pay attention. For example, track if decisions made in meetings are actually implemented, or if those decisions are tweaked or changed before implementation.
4. Priorities. Some companies value individualism, while others prioritize collaboration. These are two very different structures that require different approaches to success. To take sole credit in a collaborative culture will quickly lead to a reputation of not being a team player and diminish our chances of success before they begin. If it’s not obvious from how work gets done, pay attention to how recognition and reward are handed down. Are they given to individuals or teams?
When we join a new company our past accomplishments don’t matter past getting the job. Our future success depends on how we adapt to our new environment and culture, and being able to recognize and understand that culture either intensifies or disrupts that success.
I am always curious to hear from you. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].
About Brian Maynor
Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.
