Culture

What does the company value in practice, not on a poster?

What it measures

Whether stated values show up in hiring, firing, promotions, and daily behaviour. Covered by questions on values clarity, communication, hiring, and recognition.

Why it matters

Culture is a control system for behaviour when rules don't cover every situation. A weak culture means you have to write more rules; a strong one lets you hire good people and trust them.

What good looks like

  • Mission, vision, values documented clearly
  • Values referenced in hiring interviews
  • Behaviours that embody values are recognised publicly
  • Culture fit is a real criterion in promotions and exits

How it evolves across levels

  1. L1 Foundation

    Values are written and communicated.

  2. L2 Structure

    Hiring interviews probe for culture fit.

  3. L3 Performance

    Recognition reinforces the culture you want.

  4. L4 Excellence

    Culture survives growth and key hires without dilution.

  5. L5 Mastery

    People describe the culture the same way regardless of tenure.