A job description might tell you what a role involves—but it won’t tell you what it’s really like to work there. Culture is the everyday experience of being part of an organisation—how people interact, make decisions, handle challenges, and celebrate wins. And for most people, culture plays a major role in job satisfaction, performance, and longevity in a role.
So how can candidates assess company culture before accepting an offer? Here’s how to look beyond the job ad and uncover the real story.
1. Explore the Company’s Online Presence
Start by reviewing the company’s website, careers page, and social media channels. You’re not just looking for polished branding—you’re looking for authenticity and alignment.
Look for:
- Employee stories or testimonials
- Visuals of real team events, celebrations, or behind-the-scenes moments
- Mentions of values, purpose, or mission
- Initiatives around diversity, inclusion, flexibility, or wellbeing
Red flag: A company that talks about culture but doesn’t show it may not be walking the talk.
2. Read Between the Lines of the Job Ad
While most job descriptions are focused on tasks and requirements, they often include subtle cultural cues. Pay attention to the language and tone.
Ask yourself:
- Does the wording feel rigid or flexible?
- Is there emphasis on collaboration or independence?
- Are they highlighting innovation, structure, empathy, or growth?
Example: A job ad that emphasises autonomy, rapid change, and fast decision-making may point to a high-paced, entrepreneurial environment—great for some, overwhelming for others.
3. Research Employee Reviews and Ratings
Platforms like Glassdoor, Seek, or Indeed can offer valuable insights from current and former employees. Look for patterns rather than focusing on one-off reviews.
Focus on:
- How people describe leadership and communication
- Comments about work-life balance, recognition, and team dynamics
- Whether the company lives its stated values
- How it handles conflict, change, or feedback
Pro tip: Look at how the company responds to feedback—do they acknowledge concerns or ignore them?
Ask Culture-Focused Questions in the Interview
Interviews aren’t just for the employer to assess you—they’re your chance to assess them. Use the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions that uncover deeper insights into the working environment.
Try asking:
- “How would you describe the team dynamic?”
- “How is feedback typically given and received here?”
- “Can you share an example of how the company supported employees through a challenge?”
- “What’s something people often get wrong about the culture here?”
Observe how openly and confidently the interviewer responds—and whether multiple team members share consistent answers.
Take Note of Interview Interactions
The way you’re treated during the hiring process can say a lot about the culture. Is the communication respectful and timely? Are interviews structured and professional? Do the interviewers listen and engage thoughtfully?
Pay attention to:
- How they handle scheduling or follow-up
- Whether you feel seen and heard during conversations
- How transparent they are about expectations, growth, or challenges
First impressions matter on both sides—this is your window into how the business values people.
Look at LinkedIn and Alumni Networks
LinkedIn can reveal how long employees stay, what kind of roles people move into, and how leaders communicate publicly. If you know someone who works or used to work there, don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal chat.
Questions to explore:
- “What’s one thing you appreciated about the culture?”
- “What surprised you after you joined?”
- “Would you recommend it to someone with my priorities?”
These candid conversations often reveal the most honest and useful insights.
Final Thoughts
Company culture is about people, values, and behaviours—not perks and ping-pong tables. Taking the time to dig deeper beyond the job description can help you make a decision that’s right not just for your career, but for your wellbeing and growth.
After all, the right job in the wrong culture is still the wrong fit.
So be curious, ask questions, observe the signs—and don’t just accept a job. Choose a workplace where you can genuinely thrive.
