The video titled "Evaluating Cultural Fit + Culturesmithing: Everyone Influences Culture" features Casey Watts discussing the critical issue of workplace culture in the context of "The Great Resignation." The talk aims to help individuals assess their current organizational culture and provide actionable strategies to improve it.

Key Points Discussed:

• Understanding Cultural Fit: Watts emphasizes the importance of evaluating whether a company’s culture aligns with personal happiness and job satisfaction. Key components include financial compensation, social connection, and learning opportunities.
• Framework for Evaluation: He introduces the Japanese concept of ikigai, which illustrates finding purpose through four elements: doing what you love, being skilled at it, meeting a need in the world, and being compensated for it.
• Cultural Toxicity: The speaker highlights toxic workplace traits, referring to a study from MIT Sloan that identifies disrespect, non-inclusiveness, unethical behavior, and cutthroat environments as major factors driving employee resignation.
• Tools for Assessment: Attendees are encouraged to create a personal list of job preferences, rate their happiness on a scale, and cultivate options for changing their work situation beyond simply leaving for another job.
• Culture Smithing: The second part of the presentation focuses on how to actively contribute to a healthier workplace culture. Watts provides 30 concrete actions for individuals to foster cultural improvements, including encouraging social movement in the office, correcting microaggressions, and experimenting with new practices.
• Gradual Change: Watts stresses that cultural change is often slow and requires persistence. He introduces concepts such as social pressure, education, and gradual reforms to create lasting improvements in organizational culture.
• Important Takeaways: Participants should view themselves as active agents of change within their organizations. They are encouraged to give themselves permission to initiate cultural shifts, seek allies for support, and embrace a collaborative approach to implement changes effectively.

Conclusion:

In summary, Casey Watts' talk provides valuable frameworks and actionable techniques for individuals looking to assess and improve workplace culture, addressing the escalating trend of employee dissatisfaction and departure. By understanding both personal needs and company culture dynamics, employees can advocate for a more inclusive and fulfilling work environment.