The second part of Alva's Growth Factors is Culture preferences. They list the type of environments that the person is most likely to thrive in. Different personalities tend to prefer different team cultures, since these can be more or less in line with one’s typical way of functioning. When the culture aligns with your personality, it tends to bring out the best in you.

It is important to note that an organisation usually contains multiple variations when it comes to culture. Some teams or departments might be more task-oriented, whereas others are more relationship-focused, for example. This means that it is often possible to satisfy several different culture preferences also within an organisation, e.g. by moving internally.

Alva's Culture preferences are generated based on a model derived from research on how the Five Factor personality traits relate to preferences in organisational culture. Below, you will find an introduction to the different culture preferences in our taxonomy.

Analytical: An analytical and thorough culture with focus on precision. Tasks are expected to be followed through carefully, without much improvisation.

Decisive: A culture where moving forward is a priority, rather than avoiding risks or reaching consensus.

Energetic: A culture emphasising competition and seizing opportunities. A go-getter mentality where confidence and bold moves are encouraged.

Innovative: A culture promoting experimentation, risk-taking and novel thinking, rather than carefulness and stability.

Supportive: A warm culture where members share information and help each other. Colleagues support and encourage one another.

Task-oriented: A culture of high expectations, achievement, and excellence. Mastery and high ambition are recognized and celebrated.

Team-oriented: A collaborative culture focusing on team effort, where cooperation is encouraged above competition.