In the past, it might have been a common thought for candidates to view company culture as secondary to salary, but now it appears company culture has quickly risen to the top of workers’ priority lists as staff learn why it’s so important.
A recent UK survey proves there’s more to attracting and keeping staff than a hefty benefits package and salary. Workers are prioritising their progression, interaction with management, and day-to-day lives at work more than they used to. If a company’s culture is not up-to-scratch, new data shows they’re likely to jump ship.
What is company culture?
Company culture is an organisation’s shared values, attitudes, and what aligns with its purpose. It determines how employees interact with each other, reach their goals, and relate to the company’s wider beliefs and values. When a candidate joins an organisation, they automatically become part of their culture. So if it’s not what it’s cut out to be, staff will more than likely resent coming to work.
Over 90% of the respondents from the UK survey that was created by There Be Giants would go as far as quitting their job role if they were lumbered with a company culture they were unhappy with. Studies show that modern-day workers are looking to work for socially led organisations that prioritise and boost their working environment, as people-first companies are far more likely to attract new candidates and retain existing staff.
Why company culture is becoming even more important
The benefits of strong company culture are endless. It allows an organisation to claim and own its identity, filtering beliefs and values throughout its entire workforce. Placing such importance on values is a great opportunity to set and maintain the direction of its employees. Without a strong culture, it’s difficult to keep beliefs and values consistent.
Having a strong culture also helps companies maintain their image. If an organisation is known for the great way it treats its employees, customers are more likely to resonate with the brand and buy into its identity. It also means new candidates are more willing to work for the company, particularly if the company operates a hybrid working policy since more than 40% of UK employees work now in hybrid roles where they equally split their time between remote working and visiting the office.
Perhaps the most important benefit of all is the attraction of new talent and the retention of existing employees. When workers feel listened to, valued, and as if they truly belong in an organisation, they’re far more likely to stick around for the long haul.
The There Be Giants survey revealed that a great working environment is even more important to the British gentleman, with over 80% of men admitting that a company’s culture is the top priority when considering a new role.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for organisations to prioritise fostering a culture that encourages employees to love where they work. If business leaders cannot address the role culture plays in employee engagement, motivation, and morale, they’re likely to reap the consequences and cannot attract new talent and retain their existing staff.
