Fit Into the Organization 16: Summary & the Importance

This concludes our series on how fitting in helps you get the biggest raises and better jobs

Bennie was a good person and a good manager. He started managing a mid-size branch of a global charitable organization. He performed well, made friends with other managers, and fit into the organization very well. As a result, he received a promotion to upper management at the global headquarters. Once again, he made friends and fit into the headquarters staff. He headed up the organization’s response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. That led to a prime assignment in the Caribbean, then, back to headquarters. In all situations, Bennie’s ability to make friends, understand the corporate culture, and fit in led to his promotions and good reputation.

Summary of How to Fit In

We have discussed several ways for you to fit into your organization. They included fitting in

• Culturally
• Visually
• Conversationally
• Organizationally
• Professionally
• Socially
• Written rules
• Unwritten rules
• Support team members
• Stay connected with former friends & co-workers
• Make your boss look good

Your mentor, internal network, and research help you fit into the organization.

Consequences of Not Fitting In

Companies do not reward, nor appreciate people who do not fit in. You’ve probably worked with someone who doesn’t fit into the organization. People who don’t fit in can impact the organization negatively. People who do not fit in may:

• Irritate co-workers, clients, or suppliers
• Reduce productivity and morale
• Drive away your best workers or team members
• Cost time and money

Why would companies reward someone who creates these situations?

Importance of Fitting In

You need to fit into the organization to keep your job, earn the biggest raises, and get the best promotions. Team players—who produce well—get rewarded. You follow these guidelines, you will get rewarded too.

Companies seek to run smoothly. They seek cohesion among their employees. Even when companies seek for diversity in thought and action, they want teams that work well together. Smooth work means smooth production, efficient production, effective production. That’s how companies think. Fit in.

Wednesday we review new studies of about geography, education, & poverty

This blog will improve as you submit comments, questions, and experiences. We will answer your questions in future blog posts. Please submit your comments and questions so we can answer them.