The Secret to Finding Your Ideal Workplace | Marion Campan | TED

How to Choose Between Two Job Offers?

Introduction to the Dilemma

• The speaker introduces a common scenario: receiving two job offers after a long search, prompting the question of how to choose between them.

• Different perspectives on decision-making are presented, including prioritizing salary, job title, or project type.

Importance of Company Culture

• The speaker suggests an alternative criterion for choosing a job: the company's culture.

• Marion shares her background and passion for corporate cultures, emphasizing that understanding company culture is crucial before making a decision.

Personal Background and Cultural Insights

• Marion reveals her origins from Tahiti rather than Paris, highlighting the cultural diversity of her home island.

• She notes that many people struggle to assess company culture before joining and aims to provide insights on how to evaluate it effectively.

Statistics on Workplace Engagement

• Citing Gallup's research, Marion discusses alarming statistics about employee engagement in East Asia—only 17% are engaged at work.

• She explains that disengaged employees often seek other opportunities or do the bare minimum if they cannot leave.

Real-Life Example: Junita's Experience

• Marion shares a coaching example involving Junita, an attorney who felt out of place in a startup environment due to differing work ethics.

• After struggling with self-doubt in her role, Junita transitioned to a more traditional workplace where she thrived.

Evaluating Company Culture Before Joining

• Marion emphasizes the importance of finding an environment that brings out one's best qualities rather than their worst.

• She compares assessing company culture to selecting ripe avocados—one must observe carefully before making a choice.

Tools for Assessing Company Culture

Observation as a Key Tool

• The first tool suggested is observation during the hiring process; companies showcase their best selves while recruiting.

Understanding Company Culture Through Interview Questions

The Importance of Observing Company Culture

• When interviewing, observe the dynamics among interviewers; a hierarchical culture may be indicated if only one person speaks while others remain silent. It's essential to determine if this culture aligns with your preferences.

• Consider whether you thrive in a flat organizational structure that encourages expression and challenges the status quo, as this will influence your fit within the company.

Strategic Questions to Ask During Interviews

• Asking questions during an interview is crucial; it allows you to gauge the company's environment and assert your interest. Prepare thoughtful inquiries to enhance your understanding of potential employment.

Question 1: Promotion Pathways

• Inquire about who gets promoted within the company by asking, "What type of people get promoted here?" This question reveals insights into growth opportunities and company values regarding meritocracy.

• Follow-up questions can provide deeper insights into specific promotions, such as asking why someone was selected for advancement. Listen carefully for indicators of merit versus favoritism.

Question 2: Core Values

• Ask about the company's core values with "What are your core values?" A lack of awareness or vague responses indicate potential cultural misalignment.

• If they mention a value like excellence but cannot provide examples, it's a red flag. Conversely, specific recent achievements tied to their values signal a strong cultural foundation.

Question 3: Feedback Mechanisms

• To understand how conflicts are managed and feedback is given, ask, "When was the last time you received feedback here?" Regular feedback indicates a healthy communication culture.

• Responses indicating infrequent feedback suggest issues in employee development. Positive answers reflect an environment focused on growth and collaboration.

The Dual Nature of Interviews

• Remember that interviews serve both parties; while companies assess candidates, candidates should evaluate whether the organization meets their expectations and professional goals.

• Recognize that understanding corporate culture is vital for long-term satisfaction in any role; ensure clarity on what you seek from an employer before making decisions.

Conclusion: Aligning Expectations with Company Culture