Workplace micro-trends and cultural norms are often dissected by social media influencers. However, long before these trends became popular online, Jenny Chatman was already observing workplace behaviors. Her interest led her to the field of organizational culture, which examines “the patterns of beliefs and expectations that people in an organization share.” In a recent 101 in 101 video, Chatman discusses how different generations have varying expectations for workplace interactions.
Professor Chatman is currently the dean of the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and a recognized leader in her field. During her time as a Ph.D. student at UC Berkeley, she co-developed the Organizational Culture Profile with Charles O’Reilly and Dave Caldwell. This tool helps organizations understand their values and has become an industry standard.
Chatman states, “The thing about organizational culture is you don’t have a choice about whether one forms.” She emphasizes that organizations can either cultivate a culture that supports their strategy or one that limits it.
She cites Southwest Airlines as an example of strong organizational culture. The airline invests in its employees, who then provide excellent customer service, aligning with the company’s strategic goals.
Chatman’s research spans various topics from Himalayan climbing expeditions to cultural adaptability’s impact on financial success. Her upcoming book with Glenn Carroll aims to help leaders create strategically relevant cultures by dispelling myths about organizational culture. Titled “Making Organizational Culture Great: Moving Beyond Popular Beliefs for Strategic Success,” it will be published by Columbia Business Press in fall 2025.
More 101 in 101 videos featuring UC Berkeley faculty can be found online.
