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The words “work hard play hard” don’t accurately describe company culture — what does that really mean? Better choice: Stories that communicate culture.

‘Work hard, play hard’ often rolls off the tongues of our employee storytellers when describing the fun side of their organization. The phrase aims to communicate the balance of hard work and meaningful, light-hearted relationships with colleagues.

But “play hard,” in particular, can mean different things at different companies. Does the fun typically happen during work, or after hours? Are team members obligated to go, or do they choose to take part? Does it center around alcohol, or is the “play” more well-rounded?

Stories show culture

These questions and perceptions are why candidates need more than just a statement on a career site. It is the stories  that bring ‘work hard, play hard’ to life and give the statement meaning within your recruitment marketing content. And it is the stories that help candidates opt in and out, based on how they’d fit in with that culture.

Combining personal and professional passion

We spoke with individuals from BAE Systems, Inc. When a summer solar eclipse was approaching, semiconductor engineer Maggie was nervous that no one else in the office was going to be interested. 

This story demonstrates that this organization’s passion for science goes beyond just the work they do; it is a passion that brings them all together outside of the office, too.

Celebrating when you “work hard”

For the Frontpoint Security sales team, “working hard” came in the form of a heated sales competition. Check out Robert’s story of how they celebrated when his team won.

Requiring fun for employees

Once a month, The Motley Fool puts every employee’s name in a hat one time for every year you’ve been a Fool. If your name is drawn, you’re required to take a Fool’s Errand: two weeks off, paid, within the next month. The company also provides some money to use however you’d like.

Check out how different Fools have spent their Fool’s Errand.

Helping a colleague check something off a bucket list

Nina from Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) had always wanted to dress as Cruella de Vil for Halloween, with her children dressed as Dalmatians. When she mentioned this to her team, she was ecstatic when a few of her colleagues agreed to dress as Dalmatians for Halloween that year in the office.

But, unbeknownst to Nina, her team had spread the word throughout the office. Watch below to see what they did next!

Work hard, play hard, give culture clarity

There’s nothing wrong with having a “work hard, play hard” company culture, but there is something wrong with saying it … without sharing the details! Candidates are looking to understand how they’ll fit in with your team and their version of playing hard might look a lot different from your team’s.

Implementing a stories-based approach will allow you to still say “work hard play hard,” while at the same time demonstrating what that means to your team on a day-to-day basis. That way, potential candidates get a glimpse of your real company or team culture.

Capture the stories that show your team culture!

Employee storytelling creates the most compelling culture content for candidates. Our guide gives you tips and actionable examples for bring your real, unique team culture to life!