One of the more fascinating theories Dr. Roloff introduced last week was Attraction-Selection-Attrition (ASA) Theory. The theory conveys that one applies for a job because they think they fit the organization’s culture, they are hired because the bosses feel the applicant fits the organization’s culture, and the applicant stays or leaves the organization based on how they fit with the organization’s culture. Of course, I related this to my personal work experience and tried to determine what type of culture embodied my organization.
After reflection, I concluded that my organization is predominantly a Detailed-Oriented Culture. This makes sense because my department’s responsibility is to monitor and maintain my organization’s Data Center. My co-workers and I tend to have open personalities and are very conscientious. The goal of our job descriptions is to ensure the Data Center is operating to its optimal ability. Our focus is oriented around the quality of work we are producing rather than the quantity of work like an outcome-oriented or reward-oriented culture does.
When I first applied to my organization, I had a positive experience with everyone I came in contact with. After my interviews were complete, I was hoping to be offered the job position because I felt that I could succeed at the job’s descriptions and was attracted to the work environment.
As for my five interviewers, I’m sure they felt the same way about me. It is likely I was selected not only for my credentials, but also because I would fit in with the culture and atmosphere of the department. I can say that I made a personal connection with each of my interviewers which greatly increased my chances of being hired.
I have been working at this job for 16 months and continue to enjoy my daily tasks as well as the new responsibilities I am given. I can see myself staying in my organization for many years to come. Granted, if the culture of my organization changes, then I will probably seek another job with a Detailed-Oriented Culture.
It helps to know what kind of person you are before you start searching for jobs. Sometimes, we don’t have a choice and must accept any job offered to us. However, if we want our work to be fulfilling and enjoyable, then we need to find a culture we are compatible with. So I challenge you to reflect – what kind of culture is your organization and what kind of culture do you want to work in?

I love negotiation. I love negotiating. I wish I could do it more often. I receive the same exhilaration from it that I do from playing a competitive sport – without the risk of physical injury I might add. After another insightful lecture in my Change Management course, I was ready to apply my new negotiation skills immediately.
The first opportunity I had was when I needed to add a Northwestern hoodie to my wardrobe. I was going to a Wildcats football game with some of my MSC classmates after classes were done and I needed some school spirit gear for the chilly evening ahead.
I walked into a Northwestern apparel shop and started inspecting the various options. The store was empty, so the attendant was eager to assist me in any capacity. When asked who I was shopping for, I casually mentioned that it was for myself and my siblings who had birthdays soon. I could see the attendant’s excitement rise at the thought of convincing me to purchase my siblings’ birthday gifts at his store.
As soon as I asked a question about one of the products, he answered it quickly, but then proceeded to say it was “on sale”. I had made a few rounds in the store and new there were no sales going on. It was clear the attendant wanted to make a sale and please his customer. I looked at the clock and noticed it was fifteen minutes to closing time. I told the attendant I needed to think about it.
After waiting a few more minutes, pretending to ponder the hoodie I had my heart set on, I tried it on and asked the attendant how much it was “on sale” for. His price was 25% off the list price and I made my decision to purchase it immediately. I liked the hoodie and the attendant wanted to make the sale. This was a clear Win-Win negotiation. I left the store before it closed with my new hoodie for the game the following evening. The store attendant was pleased because not only did he make the sale, but by offering me the special discount, I assured him I would return if I ever needed more Northwestern gear.