You need to determine what your values are. Do you value a work-life balance? Do you value transparent communication? Etc. Once you determine what you value most, then you can create a question that caters to it. On a company's website, your values might align, but it comes down to the people you work with. Your potential co-workers are the people who are embracing the company's values. It is important to be observant in an interview, and talk to as many people in the company as you can. A company might say they value a collaborative environment, but after going into the office for an interview, you notice that people keep to themselves and don't seem friendly. That is an indicator that your values do not align with the company, despite what they have presented. I don’t think there is one question that will ultimately determine if your values align with a company. It comes down to evaluating company culture and determining if you can see yourself fitting in with your coworkers.
Most companies (especially the bigger ones) have similar core value statements prepared, but where they fall short is in actually enforcing those values and modeling them from the top. One way to gauge how well a company actually lives up to its values is to ask how the company goes about fostering the kind of values they claim to embody. A good company will have a clear answer for how they enforce and nurture their culture according to their values.
Staying true to your individual values as a person is a critical life and career skill. In the first few years of your career, you will be challenged (positively and negatively) to work with people who have different ideologies than you, who have had easier or harder ways of getting to the same place as you, and who possess a different education or skillset than you. And, more often than not, most of the companies you will be applying to will more-or-less have the same corporate values when asked point blank. Instead of asking about words that could encompass their values, ask how the company actively portrays these values through action. For instance, if they say “community” is an important value to them, drive the conversation to see the “how” behind a value - whether that means a once-a-year bulk sum donation to a preferred charity partner or once-a-week flex hours to volunteer at an organization of your choice. Always remember that actions speak much louder than words ever will.
"How do you and the team learn new things and technologies?" is the question that I would ask during an interview to ensure value alignment with a company. When I look for a job, the most significant factor for me is the availability of advanced technologies and a culture of innovation within the company. If a company values and promotes innovation, it signals to me that I can develop professionally with the organization and work alongside top talent. For me, when a company is driven by this belief and values innovation, it is better equipped to bring about meaningful change and achieve its goals. Winnie Yau, Bachelor of Science in Marketing, Class of 2017
They lack evidence to back up their claims. Most applicants will say they are "excellent team players" or have "strong work ethics" during job interviews. However, if they are unable to provide you with instances that back up these principles, they may be just using platitudes to try to impress you. Their morals don't line up with what's needed for the job. Employees that think outside the box may be perfect candidates for a product development or marketing team looking to attract new clients. But they'll probably be challenging to keep on a team or in a corporation that prioritizes processes.
One question that can help ensure value alignment with a company is: "What motivated you to apply for this position and what do you know about our company's values and mission?" This question can reveal whether the candidate has done their research and understands the company's culture, goals, and values. It can also provide insight into the candidate's own values and whether they align with those of the company.
An answer to such a question clarifies the company's goals and priorities. The response outlines what the company values most - profit, reputation, or employee development. A company's development goals are equally crucial as its employees' growth. It is, therefore, important to discuss both factors before considering a company. The question leaves space and freedom for answering and lets you understand whether your values match the company. It also shows them that you're committed and eager to learn.
As a CEO, I believe it is necessary to make sure the values and objectives are stated and addressed in detail. Participate in the interview process, making sure the questions are appropriate and routinely participate in onboarding to ensure success. It won't work to mention them just once!
CEO at New England Home Buyers
Answered 3 years ago
In my opinion, effective communication is crucial. It needs to begin at the initial interview session. HR should make sure that prospective employees are prepared to share the same ideals if the company creates healthy items. The concept of establishing a "community of practice" appeals to me. Our organization has a Slack-like employee communication platform where staff members can share ideas and comments.