Cultures of Success: Recruiting and Retaining New Live-In Residence Life Professionals

A qualitative inquiry designed to understand entry-level, live-in, professional staff recruitment and retention practices perceived as successful revealed a link to elements of organizational culture. Several important areas of understanding emerged: the actual recruitment and retention practices, the impact of leadership, and the role of organizational culture in the success of the department. This article addresses the impact of culture on the organization and its contribution to success in hiring and retaining entry-level staff. The discussion of findings and practical implications broadens our understanding of culture and better informs practice.