Last updated on Jun 19, 2024

You're struggling to align with company values during onboarding. How can you bridge the gap?

When you're new to a company, aligning with its values can sometimes feel like navigating a maze without a map. The onboarding process is your crucial first exposure to the culture and ethos of your new workplace, and feeling out of sync with these values can be disheartening. It's important to remember that this is a common challenge, and bridging the gap is a matter of understanding, communication, and adaptation. By actively engaging in the onboarding process and seeking clarity, you can start to internalize and reflect the company's core principles in your work and behavior.

1 Seek Clarity

If you find yourself struggling to align with company values, the first step is to seek clarity. Make sure you have a solid understanding of what each value truly means. Request examples of how these values are embodied within the organization. This can involve asking your manager or HR representative for more detailed explanations or observing how your colleagues integrate these values into their daily work. Understanding the practical application of company values can provide you with a clearer roadmap for how to incorporate them into your own role.

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2 Ask Questions

During onboarding, never hesitate to ask questions. If certain values seem abstract or difficult to apply, inquire how they translate into day-to-day responsibilities. Engage with your peers or superiors about how they interpret and live by these values. By opening up a dialogue, you not only gain insight but also show your eagerness to integrate into the company culture. This proactive approach can lead to valuable advice and examples that will help you align your actions with the company's ethos.

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Vrinda C.

Hiring Diverse Talent for News, Radio & Corporate roles by Leveraging Data, Strategy & Creativity.
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Talk to Your Manager: Schedule a one-on-one meeting with your manager to discuss your concerns. Phrase your questions in a way that seeks clarification, not confrontation. For example, "I really value [your value] and noticed a situation where [company action]. Can you help me understand how these align?" Seek Multiple Perspectives: Talk to colleagues who seem to have a good grasp of the company culture. Ask them about their experiences and how they navigate situations where values might seem unclear.

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3 Reflect & Adapt

Take time to reflect on your own values and how they align with those of your company. It's natural for there to be differences, but understanding where you stand can help you identify areas for personal growth and adaptation. Consider how you can authentically incorporate the company's values into your work without compromising your own principles. Sometimes, aligning with company values is about finding common ground and adapting your approach to resonate with the organizational culture.

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Vrinda C.

Hiring Diverse Talent for News, Radio & Corporate roles by Leveraging Data, Strategy & Creativity.
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Review Company Resources: Look for resources that elaborate on the company values. This might include a handbook, internal website, or past presentations. Be Open-Minded: Sometimes, companies have stated values that aren't perfectly reflected in everyday culture. Be open to understanding the nuances and how the company is working towards its stated goals. Consider the Long-Term: If the misalignment feels fundamental, it might be a sign that the company culture isn't a good fit for you in the long run. Consider if there's a way to adjust your expectations or if it's worth seeking a position that better aligns with your values.

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4 Seek Feedback

Actively seek feedback on how well you're embodying the company's values in your work. Constructive criticism can be invaluable for your development. It provides a perspective on where you're succeeding and where you might need to put in more effort. Remember that feedback is not just about pointing out shortcomings; it's also about recognizing and reinforcing positive behaviors that align with company values.

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5 Build Relationships

Building strong relationships with your colleagues can greatly assist in understanding and adopting company values. Through these relationships, you'll gain insights into the nuances of the company culture that aren't always communicated during formal onboarding sessions. Colleagues can offer support, share their experiences, and provide a sense of how the company values translate into everyday interactions and decisions.

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Vrinda C.

Hiring Diverse Talent for News, Radio & Corporate roles by Leveraging Data, Strategy & Creativity.
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Find Value Champions: Identify colleagues who seem to embody the company values. Talk to them about their experiences and how they approach situations that align with the values.

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6 Continuous Learning

Embrace the idea of continuous learning. Company values are not always static, and as the organization evolves, so might its core principles. Keep an open mind and be prepared to adapt to new interpretations or shifts in values. Attend workshops, participate in team-building activities, and stay engaged with any ongoing training opportunities. Continuous learning will help you stay aligned with company values and contribute positively to the company culture.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You're struggling to align with company values during onboarding. How can you bridge the gap?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Seek Clarity

2 Ask Questions

3 Reflect & Adapt

4 Seek Feedback

5 Build Relationships

6 Continuous Learning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Staff Development

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You're struggling to align with company values during onboarding. How can you bridge the gap?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Seek Clarity

2 Ask Questions

3 Reflect & Adapt

4 Seek Feedback

5 Build Relationships

6 Continuous Learning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Staff Development

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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