2. What is Corporate Culture?

Question 1

Corporate Culture Definition for this course: Schein (2004)

Answer 1

The culture of a group can now be defined as a pattern of shared basic assumptions that was learned by a group as it solved its problems of external adaption and internal integration, that has worked well enough to be considered valid and, therefore to be taught to new members as the correct way to perceive, think and feel in relation to those problems

Question 2

Three Levels of Culture Schein (2004)

Answer 2

Artifacts: Visible and feelable structures and processes, observed behavior

Espoused beliefs and values: ideals, goals, values, aspirations, ideologies, rationalizations

Basic underlying assumptions: unconscious, taken-for-granted beliefs and values

Question 3

Corporate logos

Answer 3

• iconic symbol designed to represent a company

- intended to symbolize and convey the values and products of a company

Question 4

Mission statements

Answer 4

• defines the long-term vision of the organization in terms of where it wants to be and whom it wants to serve
• often make reference to the purpose of the organization, its principle business aims, the key beliefs and values of the company

Question 5

Corporate architecture

Answer 5

• stylish buildings, office layouts, landscape gardening
• influence on behavior of employees
• symbols of organizational opulence
• uniting symbols of corporate identity

Question 6

Espoused beliefs

Answer 6

Group learns that certain values, beliefs “work”

- process of social validation does not always work

Question 7

Value

Answer 7

Criterion according to which behavior can be evaluated

Example: Gender equality

Question 8

Norm

Answer 8

Rule of conduct

Example: No sexist jokes should be told

Question 9

Norms and values economic perspective

Answer 9

• intrinsically anchored
• enforced extrinsically –> reward
• intrinsic preferences for conformity