Leaders: How to Survive a Misfit Culture

If you have been looking for a job in the past few years, the term “culture fit” probably came up in your search. Whether it was expressed by an interviewer or discussed by an individual at a particular firm, it seems that everyone is finally grasping the importance of matching people to cultures of organizations.

What’s the big deal about “culture fit” ? When leaders land in workplaces that are consistent with their values and vision, they are more likely to contribute in meaningful ways. Being part of a community where we feel we belong and is representative of what we stand for will usually lead to greater success and longevity.

The kicker is that doesn’t always happen! Sometimes we find ourselves in work environments that don’t mesh with our professional or personal leadership styles. In fact, this culture misfit can happen many times throughout our careers. But just because the culture is not our number one choice, can we lead through it successfully?

Related: 4 Reasons Why Leaders Shouldn't Label Their Team

Here are five ways leaders survive a culture misfit:

1. IDENTIFY YOUR NON-NEGOTIABLE VALUES

When we find ourselves in a work situation that doesn’t reflect who we are, then we need to decide quickly what actions or behaviors are not worth compromising. For example, if you are very people-focused and you end up on a team that is all about the end results, then think how you can add some humanity. Volunteer to organize coffees or happy hours to help the team members get to know one another better. Alternatively, if you need more independent time and the team is very social, suggest ways to build in space for yourself. If we try to keep an open mind we may be able to tweak some livable changes.

2. FIND LIKE-MINDED COLLEAGUES

A great way to feel more comfortable working with a culture misfit is to locate co-workers who may be more like yourself. No matter where you work, there will usually be team members who you can better relate and seem to possess similar values. Connect with them as they can often be wonderful sounding boards and advocates.

3. SEEK OUT CHALLENGING ASSIGNMENTS

Whatever our job, it is important to grow ourselves and learn new skills and knowledge. Even if the culture isn’t our “cup of tea”, we can still survive and add worthwhile experiences.

  • Ask your boss for different responsibilities to learn something new
  • Offer to work on projects that team members are struggling to meet deadlines
  • Talk to individuals in different departments that may interest you
  • Commit to creating and achieving “stretch goals”
  • 4. PRESENT YOUR PERSPECTIVES

    Be open to sharing your alternative approaches in a respectful but confident way . Let’s say you are frustrated in how customer connections are handled and know that learning about customer interests can develop relationships. Then suggest your ideas and share a story of a successful customer experience that helped you develop a deeper connection. The team just might follow your lead.

    5. IF ALL ELSE FAILS, THEN MAKE THE LEAP

    As with all things in life, sometimes our best intentions and actions don’t pan out. If that happens and you sense that you have tried to fit in as best as possible but it still isn’t working, then it may be best to move on. Look at this experience as helping you grow into the leader you ultimately want to be.

    How have you survived a “culture misfit”? What strategies helped you overcome a mismatched work environment?