Workplace Culture Matrix: Find the Right Fit for Your Growth

Are you feeling trapped or out of place at your workplace? The issue might lie in the company’s culture. During my career, I’ve observed that when workplace culture doesn’t align with personal values, it can lead to significant dissatisfaction, regardless of the perks. In this blog, I introduce a 2X2 matrix to help you identify your workplace culture based on collaboration and trust. Understanding these four types of cultures can guide you in finding an environment that truly supports your growth and happiness. Read on for more…

Are you feeling trapped in a toxic jungle? It could be the wrong workplace culture! I’ve seen many people suffer when the workplace culture doesn’t align with their values. The pay package may be good, and the commute may be easy— but is that good enough? 

Here’s my 2X2 matrix of workplace cultures. Which one is yours, and does it align with what you need to grow and be happy?

A quick and easy description: 
X-Axis: Collaboration
Indicates how much emphasis the culture places on shared goals and open communication.

Y-Axis: Trust 
Represents the level of trust between employees and management, as well as among colleagues.

4 Types of Workplace Cultures:

1. THE ‘STAR’ CULTURE (Low Collaboration, High Trust):
This culture emphasizes individual achievement and celebrates high performance. Individual contributors thrive. There is an undercurrent of competition. Therefore, collaboration is limited to specific projects, and favouritism can exist. 

2. THE SURVIVAL CULTURE (Low Collaboration, Low Trust):
The primary focus is self-preservation. Information is guarded, creating silos. There’s a general lack of trust in leadership. Hence, the environment is stifling, self-centred and can get toxic. 

3. THE PROCESS-DRIVEN CULTURE (High Collaboration, Low Trust):
Teamwork is expected within a pre-defined framework of rules, structures, and processes. There is a rigid hierarchy where information flows primarily through established channels. Respect for authority is crucial and there is lack of transparency. 

4. THE INCLUSIVE CULTURE (High Collaboration, High Trust):
This culture fosters a sense of belonging. Individual purpose aligns with the organization’s goals, leading to a strong sense of shared mission. Decision-making is not solely top-down, with teams empowered to contribute and take ownership. Open communication and collaboration are key drivers of innovation and success.

Remember, it’s okay to turn down a job offer if the cultural fit doesn’t feel right. After all, we spend about 90,000 hours—more than one-third of our lives—at work. So it better make you feel good, isn’t it? 

I would love to hear your views on workplace culture!

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