Keeping the Ship Afloat

There’s a popular philosophical thought experiment called the Ship of Theseus (also called Theseus’ Paradox), that explores the nature of identity.  In a nutshell, the experiment describes a ship that is dutifully maintained for many years. As one plank rots away, another identical plank is replaced until eventually, though the ship looks exactly the same, none of the parts are the original. So, the big thought provoking question this scenario presents – is it still the same ship?

As with many thought experiments, there really isn’t one definitive answer. There are a wide range of variables that change with each individual’s personal definitions that ultimately inform how they arrive at an answer. However, one theme that is particularly important to arriving at a solution revolves around the idea of “identity.” Though the ship has completely changed over time, it has always maintained its identity, or essence, of being the same ship. All the parts, both original and replaced, essentially become part of the same whole – the established identity of the ship.  

In the workforce, your company culture is your identity. Employees come and go, and like the ship of Theseus, at some point you may find yourself with a completely new team. However, if you’ve strived to maintain a strong company culture, you have likely retained the “essence” of your team.

Establishing company culture is a vital part of maintaining a strong, productive workforce. The most successful businesses have a set of core values that inform every decision they make – especially when it comes to hiring. By ensuring you hire people who fit the company culture, you are taking steps to ensure the ongoing success of the company as a whole. Companies that have a strong, well-established culture know a job candidate with all the right ivy-league education and an extensive track record of accomplishments isn’t necessarily a shoo-in. New employees who are hastily picked have the potential of affecting an entire team and throwing off the balance of an established work environment. Comprehensive hiring practices help maintain the identity of your team and keep the ship afloat.

How do you ensure a job candidate is a strong cultural fit? Let us know in the comments section below.

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