So what is a culture fit, anyway? Does it mean signing up to be a company clone, a Yes man or a Yes woman? Can candidates be a culture fit and still be themselves?

“We believe you can put your best foot forward and still be you – core values are our guide,” says Christa Foley, Senior Manager HR & Zappos Insights. “People energize the core values in different ways and some people embody different core values than others. All we’re looking to find out is that you aren’t opposed to any of the core values.” And given that the occasional parade makes its way through Zappos HQ now and again, Foley adds that “you don’t have to be leading the parade, but you can’t be upset about the parade passing by.”

Diversity in a company spurs innovation. Bailen notes, “Diversity is critical to the health of a company. That’s how innovation starts – a fresh pair of eyes. That’s the only way we can push this company forward.” Providing a space where collaboration and innovation can flourish is also pivotal.

An introvert himself, Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh said, “I view my role more as trying to set up an environment where the personalities, creativity, and individuality of all the different employees come out and can shine.”