When it comes to choosing your next job, salary and title matter, but culture is what makes you stay. 47% of active job seekers cite company culture as a driving force behind their job hunt.  

However, it’s challenging to get an authentic read on culture from the outside. A few Zoom calls and a career page aren’t enough to show what daily life at the company really feels like. 

So if you’re on the job hunt, how do you find out what it’s actually like behind the scenes? 

Here’s how to assess company culture before you accept the offer: 

Do Some Online Research 

These days, a quick Google search can uncover helpful resources that shed light on what it’s really like to work somewhere. 

Glassdoor is a go-to for job seekers looking to get the inside scoop. Current and former employees leave honest reviews, sharing the pros and cons of working there, insights into benefits, and whether they’d recommend the company to a friend. 

Indeed also offers a similar function, including a workplace wellbeing score. It ranks companies on key factors like happiness, stress levels, sense of purpose, and overall satisfaction. 

On LinkedIn, each company’s page shows the median tenure of its employees. If that number is low (under 3 years), it could be a red flag. Of course, context matters (startups and fast-growing teams may naturally have shorter tenures) but persistent turnover is something to pay attention to. 

Speak to an Ex or Current Employee 

Nothing beats hearing it straight from the source. If you’re seriously considering a role, try connecting with a current or former employee on LinkedIn. A quick message like, “Hey! I’m exploring opportunities at [Company Name] and would love to hear your honest take on the culture if you’re open to sharing,” can go a long way. 

Ask questions about how leadership communicates, how feedback is handled, and what the work-life balance is really like. Most people are happy to share their experiences.  

Pay Attention During the Interview Process 

The interview process is your chance to evaluate the company. Pay close attention to how the process is run. Are they respectful of your time? Do they seem engaged and enthusiastic? Are you meeting with a diverse range of team members, or just leadership? 

When you are interviewing, ask questions that get to the heart of their culture. Try: 

• “How does the team celebrate wins?” 

• “What’s one word people would use to describe the work environment?” 

• “How do managers support professional growth?” 

The way they answer will speak volumes. 

Gain a Clear Understanding of the Company’s Benefits 

Don’t confuse surface-level benefits with a strong company culture. While those extras can be fun, they’re not what make people stay. Real company culture goes far deeper than surface-level perks. 

What actually matters? The real benefits that impact your well-being and growth: 

• Health and Mental Health Coverage: Comprehensive health plans, mental health support, and access to therapy or wellness resources show that a company values your long-term well-being.  

• Work-Life Balance: Look for flexible work options, realistic workloads, and leadership that respects your time outside of work. Remote or hybrid flexibility, protected PTO, and “unplugged” norms all contribute to a healthier environment. 

• Professional Development: Are there opportunities to learn and grow? Great cultures invest in their people by offering mentorship, continued learning, promotions from within, and stretch projects that help you level up. 

Company culture plays a massive role in job satisfaction and your overall mental health. Doing your homework upfront can save you from walking into a work environment that isn’t the right fit.