C1 M4- Learning about an organisations culture Flashcards
Why is it important to learn about the culture of the organization you work for or want to work for?
Understanding the company’s culture helps you navigate projects and influences the success of the company, regardless of its business model, as stated by Peter Drucker: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.”
What does an organization’s culture define, and how is it related to values?
An organization’s culture defines its identity, which describes how the company conducts business. Values are part of this identity, reflecting the company’s personality, mission, and beliefs.
How does a strong organizational culture affect employees?
It helps retain top talent by making employees feel valued, engaged, and challenged. It also attracts great people, whereas a toxic culture drives talent away.
What aspects of organizational culture directly impact company processes and productivity?
Organizational culture is reflected in processes, such as including opportunities for feedback to ensure employees feel heard, aligning practices with cultural values.
Why should project managers understand their company’s culture?
Organizational culture affects project communication, decision-making, rituals, management styles, and values, all of which influence project outcomes.
What types of questions can you ask to learn about a company’s atmosphere during an interview?
- What is the dress code?
- Is risk-taking encouraged, and how is failure handled?
- How do managers support their teams?
- What are workplace traditions and ways of celebrating success?
What policies can you inquire about to understand organizational flexibility and support?
- Sick day and vacation policies
- Work-from-home and flexible working hour options
- Policies supporting employee identity sharing in the workplace
How can listening to employees’ stories help you understand an organization’s culture?
It provides insights into past project experiences, key stakeholders, customers, and the internal work environment.
Why are company rituals important in understanding culture?
Rituals, such as how birthdays are celebrated or how employees interact during lunch, instill a sense of shared purpose and reveal norms.
Why are interpersonal communication skills important for project managers?
Effective communication ensures alignment with the company’s culture, such as navigating email practices or deciding how to present project updates.
How can understanding organizational culture help overcome resistance to change in projects?
By appreciating the company’s culture, project managers can build trust, encourage acceptance of improvements, and successfully implement changes.
What is the key takeaway about organizational culture in project management?
Learning to navigate organizational culture gives project managers an advantage in executing projects, building effective communication, and aligning strategies with the company’s values.
