{"id":5253,"date":"2024-02-14T13:06:38","date_gmt":"2024-02-14T11:06:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.stefduplessis.com\/?p=5253"},"modified":"2025-01-31T08:55:17","modified_gmt":"2025-01-31T06:55:17","slug":"authentic-cultural-alignment-is-it-even-achievable","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.stefduplessis.com\/index.php\/2024\/02\/14\/authentic-cultural-alignment-is-it-even-achievable\/","title":{"rendered":"Authentic cultural alignment: Is it even achievable?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Ever wonder why some people thrive in certain business environments, while others struggle to fit in? Ever blame yourself \u2013 or someone else \u2013 for not being \u201ca good match\u201d?<\/p>\n

Culture fit is an important-if-controversial variable, and many leaders and HR managers continue to struggle with it when considering top talent. So let\u2019s examine what \u201ccultural fit\u201d really means and how can you achieve it without compromising on authenticity or potential.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

In light of misconceptions<\/h6>\n

Torches are important. No debate there. Especially if you\u2019re camping, looking for a lightbulb, or living in South Africa. And, thanks to the development of batteries and incandescent light bulbs, electric torches have helped many households to locate candles, matches, and intruders through the centuries. But what if the torch doesn\u2019t light up?<\/strong><\/p>\n

It\u2019s probably the batteries, right? Right. (Good luck finding fresh batteries in the dark, in the depths of your battery-receipt-screwdriver-miscellaneous drawer.)<\/p>\n

There\u2019s always the possibility, however, that the batteries in question are simply incorrectly inserted. Now, you might think everyone knows how to insert batteries, but the moment you\u2019re deprived of light, you\u2019re likely to blame something or someone else for your inconvenience – instead of double-checking your actions or inactions.<\/p>\n

The same thing happens in many organisations, which presume that individuals, like batteries, are unfit for the system. Could it be that the system itself is failing to align with their inherent potential? Yes, we believe it could.<\/p>\n

Diagnosing misalignment<\/h6>\n

The best way to determine if you\u2019ve incorrectly inserted batteries is to open the torch and check. Same with culture fit. You must assess the current state of your organisational culture and identify areas of improvement, before settling on \u201cThis person doesn\u2019t suit our culture\u201d.<\/p>\n

Ask yourself:<\/p>\n