#13b1: How understanding company culture helps you succeed.

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Culture is multi-layered and pervasive; this has several implications for how to succeed within a company.

When joining a new company, prioritise understanding its culture. Learn the history: find a guide who speaks the language. Otherwise, you may find it difficult to be accepted and be successful. You will walk among your peers but apart from them. Group membership is important.

And since culture shapes an organisation, to make changes to your company likely means making changes to its culture. This is often difficult and must be managed deliberately. Sometimes a cigar not just a cigar — seemingly surface-level changes have implications for the system of language, norms, and values that bind a group. Without an understanding of culture, your well-intentioned changes risk provoking a defensive response, and you risk facing unexpected and entrenched resistance.


Related: 13b, 20