Brainstorm: Workplace Culture

Learning workplace culture is an integral part of learning the norms, expectations & unspoken rules of company/organization/workplace. What is considered ”professional” will vary across workplaces. How people communicate will vary. Early on, we recommend paying close attention to workplace culture and learning to have conversations with your peers and supervisors – that attempt to clarify and understand the norms and expectations.

Just by reacting to the images on the previous pages, you've practiced that important work of figuring out workplace norms. Looking at the environment can tell you a lot about what the workplace is going to be like and how you might be able to succeed there.

Taking into account what you and classmates wrote in those activities, let's take a minute to brainstorm the different ways you might be able to figure out the culture of a new or potential workplace. If there aren't many responses when you reply, don't forget to check again later when others have had a chance to answer too!

Moving On

Remember: learning workplace culture and navigating the vibe of a work environment can take time. It may involve talking with your peers, reflecting on interactions, asking questions or just paying close attention to interpersonal moments and institutional practices. Often times the rules and expectations aren’t stated. Asking questions and learning the culture of a workplace will help you as you grow in your professional identity and your leadership.