You may often wonder how to find an organization that is committed to supporting all staff. Here are a few things to consider when you are assessing an organizational culture to evaluate an organization’s dedication to its values.
PRE INTERVIEW: This section has two themes 1) Reflection and 2) Research
Review the Organization’s Mission, Values, and Goals
- Look for the mission statement, values, and goals
- Does the organization have a diversity statement on its website?
- All employers are bound by the US agency, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regulations, enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Does the organization explicitly state its commitment to anti-discrimination?
Assess the Demographics of the Organization & Employer Resource Groups
- Is there someone within the organization responsible for employee engagement or team culture?
- Does the organization employ a manager to oversee talent development?
- What is the make up of the organization’s Board of Directors?
- At what levels within the organization is representation apparent—leadership, middle management, or just entry-level?
- If salary information is accessible, ascertain whether salaries are equitable across different demographic groups within similar roles.
- Does the organization offer interest groups for employees or Employer Resource Groups? Is allyhood encouraged? Organizations that promote the existence of these types of groups are tangibly demonstrating their support. Those who join these groups may be called upon to assist the organization with initiatives that promote diversity and inclusiveness.
Are There Pipeline Programs to Attract Younger Students
- Does the organization host internships specifically for diverse populations? Are there designated events, week-long immersions, networking events, etc. that offer opportunities for the organization to connect with diverse groups?
- Does the organization participate in diversity internship programs such as Management Leadership for Tomorrow, or others?
DURING INTERVIEW: Phone/Virtual Connection/Meet Team Members
Become Informed!
- If you are meeting with an organizational representative during a networking event (i.e. information session, Open House), site visit, or interview, you will want to ask some questions to learn more about the organization’s culture and environment.
- One approach is to ask clarifying questions that will provide greater insight into the information you reviewed on the organizations’ website or from your personal observations from previous experiences. For example:
- I read that your organization has a commitment to ______________. What strategies are being employed to ensure you continue to support all staff?
- What are some recent examples of initiatives your organization has taken to promote a welcoming environment?
- How has your organization recently shown its commitment to creating a supportive workplace?
- Can you provide examples of how your organization has fostered a positive work culture lately?
- What initiatives or actions has your organization taken recently to enhance employee engagement?
- How has your organization exemplified its commitment to a positive and collaborative atmosphere in recent times?
Examine the Organization's Recruitment Approaches:
- Does the organization prioritize outreach to various communities?
- Is the organization involved in events sponsored by university career centers or other campus career offices?
- What kind of language is present in the job descriptions? Are there indications of requirements for experience or skills in working with different groups or styles?
- Does the organization participate in recruitment events organized by associations and groups with specific affiliations?
POST INTERVIEW: Evaluating/Reflect on offer or experience
Commitment to Community Outreach
- Many organizations highlight their efforts to give back to the community. Are there examples of the ways in which the organization is engaged in supporting various communities?
Observe Workplace Environment
- During your interview, see how offices are arranged? How is the staff interacting with each other?
- Did you feel welcome when you were in the office environment? How did the staff treat you from the time you walked into the office until the time you left?
- Are there professional development opportunities (both internal and external) available? Can you see a clear commitment to values through these offerings?
- Does the organization offer designated spaces to accommodate personal staff requests (i.e. prayer rooms, nursing rooms)?
Has the Organization been Involved in any Civil Lawsuits?
- Cultural fit is a personal decision. It’s incumbent on you to do some research on the organization. Your research may include investigating where the organization has been involved in any discrimination-related civil lawsuits. You may contact the local Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to gather this information.
Use the graphic below to keep track of your assessment. Or create your own tool by making a section for "Pre Interview" notes, "During Interview" notes, "Post Interview" notes, as well as a section for "Questions to Ask Organizations".
