After an illustrious 40-year tenure at Costco, Richard Galanti is set to bid farewell to his role as CFO on Friday, leaving behind a legacy marked by mentorship and a candid leadership style. Hailing from Atlanta, Galanti has imparted invaluable wisdom to countless individuals within Costco, offering insights that extend beyond the realms of financial management. In a recent interview with Progressive Grocer, Galanti shared a piece of advice that transcends conventional job interview etiquette, shedding light on the importance of firsthand observation in gauging company culture.

The Power of Early Arrival

Galanti’s advice is simple yet profound: arrive early for a job interview and observe how employees interact with guests. This proactive approach allows prospective candidates to glean insights into the company’s culture firsthand, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of employee-guest interactions. By arriving 30 minutes ahead of schedule, individuals can witness the nuances of workplace interactions and gauge the overall atmosphere within the organization. Galanti emphasizes the significance of visiting communal spaces like the lunchroom, where the essence of a company’s culture often manifests.

Costco’s Distinctive Culture

Reflecting on Costco’s unique organizational culture, Galanti underscores the company’s ethos of eschewing intimidation tactics in favor of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Unlike many retailers grappling with high turnover rates, Costco maintains a remarkably low turnover percentage, a testament to its employee-centric approach. Galanti attributes this phenomenon to Costco’s competitive compensation packages and, more importantly, its vibrant organizational culture characterized by mutual respect and camaraderie.

A Window into Company Dynamics

While Galanti’s advice may encounter limitations in the digital realm, its essence remains pertinent across various industries. Whether in retail or any public-facing business, the interactions between employees and guests serve as a microcosm of the organization’s culture and values. Beyond scripted interviews and rehearsed responses, firsthand observation offers invaluable insights into the authentic dynamics at play within a company.

Conclusion

As Richard Galanti prepares to pass the baton after four decades of dedicated service, his parting wisdom serves as a beacon for job seekers navigating the competitive landscape of corporate culture. By embracing the ethos of early arrival and observation, individuals can uncover invaluable insights into a company’s culture, setting the stage for informed career decisions. Galanti’s legacy extends beyond financial stewardship, embodying a commitment to nurturing inclusive workplaces where individuals thrive. As aspiring professionals heed his advice, they embark on a journey of discovery, unraveling the intricacies of organizational culture one observation at a time.