Culture Over Clout
The Business of Fashion has just released a new Careers Knowledge Report, highlighting what professionals across fashion and beauty are looking for in the workplace. While the findings are industry-specific, they reflect a broader shift happening across many sectors.
Fair pay and clear career progression were at the top of the list. Culture, leadership, and flexibility ranked higher than brand prestige. Nearly half of the professionals surveyed said they’re actively job hunting. And younger generations are pushing for value alignment more than ever. None of this shocked me, but seeing it laid out made me reflect on how much my relationship to work has changed.
For so long, we were conditioned to chase titles and name brands. Getting your foot in the door at a well-known company felt like the ultimate win, even if it meant sacrificing other things. But BoF’s report confirms a shift I’ve already felt firsthand: people care less about the logo on the door and more about whether they’re being paid fairly, growing in their roles, and treated with respect.
I’ve worked in environments where the name carried weight, where on paper everything looked great, but inside, the culture was unsustainable, the growth was unclear, and the energy felt heavy. I’ve also worked in places where I felt valued, trusted, and aligned with the mission. And the difference was undeniable. I didn’t realize how much it mattered until I experienced both sides.
And then, there’s the money. It’s not just about how much you’re paid, it’s about transparency. It’s about understanding where you stand, what growth looks like, and what’s expected of you along the way. I’ve experienced that uncomfortable grey area where you’re working hard, taking on more, but still not sure what it takes to move forward—or if anyone’s even noticing. That kind of ambiguity chips away at motivation. It leaves people second-guessing themselves instead of feeling supported. We need clearer paths, open dialogue, and leadership that communicates with intention.
What resonated deeply in the report was the finding that people now prioritize culture over clout. At this point in my career, I care more about how people treat each other, about how feedback is given, how boundaries are respected, and whether the environment is one where people feel safe to show up as themselves. Culture isn’t a moodboard or a brand voice. It’s how people behave when no one’s watching.
Finally, the report also highlights that Gen Z values purpose, authenticity, and work-life balance. But honestly, that’s not just Gen Z. That’s all of us. We’ve all reached a point where burnout and poor leadership aren’t things we’re willing to accept anymore. We want more, and we should. Wanting to be treated with respect, to grow, to rest, to be paid fairly —that shouldn’t feel radical.
More than anything, this report gives voice to something many people have been feeling: most people are no longer afraid to leave. If a role or environment doesn’t serve them, they’re willing to walk away. But even more importantly, many of us are focused on building better. I know I am.
As someone who’s both worked within the industry and is now building within it, I’m thinking more intentionally than ever about the kind of spaces I want to help create.
I’m proud to be clear on what matters to me now, and even more excited to build with that in mind.
Dania Khalife
