7 Ways To Keep Your Finger On The Pulse Of The Organization

By Dr. Towanna Freeman, Guest Contributor

Gone are the days when people worked in silos and did away with minimal interaction with peers. The organization structure has evolved over the years, making it essential for the workforce to stay updated about the company they work for. Since the employer plays a major role in career growth, you must keep a track of the organization you work for.

Staying abreast with all the happenings at the organization is important for various reasons. In today's dynamic work environment, companies operate in a highly volatile manner. Changing market scenario, market demand and increasing competition are some of the major factors that influence decision-making at the corporate level. Significantly, companies take necessary decisions about employee retention and layoffs based on these key factors. Therefore to make the right career move, you should know where your company is headed.

Here are 7 ways to keep your finger on the pulse of organization that employs you.

1. Work on Your Networking Skills

Strong networking skills help build relationships that are important in a corporate environment. Building networks also helps in getting updated information about the company. Many organizations encourage their employees to move laterally and by employee engagement initiatives, you can find out about opportunities commensurate with your skills and interests.

2. Understand the Organizational Chart

Every organization has a hierarchy based on experience, role and skills. By gaining information about the organizational chart, you can understand how the company functions and who are its real influencers.

3. Pay Attention to the Company's External Communication

To respond to the changing market dynamics, companies are evolving at a steady pace. Apart from diversifying, organizations are entering new markets and targeting different types of customers to gain competitive edge. Their changing priorities are reflected in their external communication, which includes their corporate websites, blogs and press releases.

4. Observe How the Media, Target Audiences and Competitors Regard the Company

A successful organization commands respect in the industry. To gauge its position in the market, you must try to find out how the media and target audiences regard the company and if they have an overall positive feedback to share. You must also ascertain if competitors truly consider the organization you work for as a threat to their business.

5. Check Out the Statistics

To assess the financial position of the company, you must gather latest figures from reliable sources. See how the company has been doing since the last few quarters and you will be able to figure out if it is making a profit or not.

6. Read What the Decision Makers Have to Say about the Company's Prospects

Key decision makers have a well-defined strategy to take the organization forward. Their opinion and insights drive the company forward. You must, therefore, check how the decision makers in the company plan to increase growth and meet business goals.

7. Assess the Overall Policy Changes Made at the Company

Organizations modify their policies to keep up with the changing times and facilitate improved employee engagement. While some policies are revised for short-term implications, some are revised to meet long-term goals. Find out how the organization is dealing with hikes, hiring and retention policies to understand its policies and objectives.

A company focused on growth and value encourages employees to share their feedback to foster a more conducive work environment. By emphasizing on management and staff accountability, companies provide greater opportunities to grow. With these 7 simple tips, you can keep a tab on the organization and understand if it is meeting all expectations. 

Dr. Towanna Freeman, is the creator of BlackLifeCoaches.net and founder of the Young Women's Empowerment Network.