One of the proudest moments I have had in building a company focused first on the people who work for me was winning our first award as one of the INC Best Places to Work in the nation. We continue to work hard to qualify for this award year after year as well as the Pennsylvania Best Places to Work award, making it to third in 2023.
As a result of our achievements, we are asked regularly how we do it. What is the secret sauce to making an organization a best-in-class company to work for?
We are certainly not alone as other companies get it. So, what sets these companies apart? What makes them great places to work? Let’s delve into the essence of what makes a company truly exceptional from the perspective of its workforce.
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate culture, certain organizations stand out as beacons of excellence – not just in terms of profitability, but also in their commitment to their employees’ well-being and professional growth.
First and foremost, exceptional companies prioritize their people. It’s more than just a mantra; it’s a fundamental belief that employees are the driving force behind success. From entry-level positions to the C-suite, every individual is valued and respected for their unique contributions. This culture of appreciation fosters loyalty and commitment, creating a sense of belonging that transcends job titles and hierarchies.
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, the concept of over-employment challenges conventional notions of career identity and organizational loyalty. As individuals navigate the maze of dual roles, they confront the contradiction of opportunity and constraint, striving to find steadiness amidst competing priorities and ethical considerations. Ultimately, the narrative of overemployment transcends the confines of an undercover existence, offering a glimpse into the resilience, adaptability and complexity of the modern workforce.
We regularly hear from new employees coming into our company, how being employee-focused is so drastically different from their past employers. And while that gives us pride, it has been something that I have focused on to try to understand why a company wouldn’t focus on people first. The concept is not overly challenging and is innately satisfying for me as a business owner and directly increased our growth, efficiencies and profitability.
Consider what it takes. To begin, great companies recognize the importance of work-life balance. They understand employees are not just assets to be used but individuals with lives outside the office. Flexible work arrangements, generous paid time off and supportive policies for parental leave and caregiving demonstrate a genuine commitment to employees’ well-being. By prioritizing work-life balance, these companies give employees peace of mind, and this empowers their employees to excel both professionally and personally.
In addition to a supportive work environment, exceptional companies invest in their employees’ development and growth. They provide ample opportunities for training, mentorship and career advancement, enabling individuals to reach their full potential.
Whether it’s through tuition reimbursement programs, leadership development initiatives or cross-functional projects, these companies actively nurture talent and promote a culture of continuous learning.
Great companies cultivate a sense of purpose and meaning in the workplace. They go beyond profits and metrics to create a positive impact on society and the environment. Whether it’s through corporate social responsibility initiatives, sustainability efforts or volunteer opportunities these companies engage employees in meaningful work that transcends the bottom line. By aligning their values with those of their employees, they inspire loyalty and commitment that extends far beyond the confines of the office.
Exceptional companies foster a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. They recognize the value of diverse perspectives and experiences and actively promote a sense of belonging for all employees. From recruitment and hiring practices to employee resource groups and diversity training programs, these companies are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and valued. By embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity, they unleash the full potential of their workforce and drive innovation and creativity.
Another hallmark of great companies is transparent communication. They keep employees informed about company goals, strategies and performance fostering trust and accountability at all levels. Whether it’s through regular town hall meetings, open-door policies, or employee feedback surveys, these companies prioritize communication as a cornerstone of their organizational culture. By keeping employees informed and engaged, they empower individuals to contribute their ideas and perspectives, driving collective success.
Exceptional companies prioritize employee health and wellness. They provide comprehensive health care benefits, wellness programs, and resources to support physical, mental and emotional well-being. Whether it’s discounts for fitness facilities, mental health counseling services via a low-cost employee assistance program or mindfulness workshops, these companies recognize the importance of supporting employees’ holistic health. By prioritizing wellness, they create a supportive environment where employees can thrive and perform at their best.
As a company that supplies human resources outsourcing services to companies in the Valley and nationwide, we have found consistently that exceptional companies are distinguished by their unwavering commitment to their employees’ well-being and professional growth. By prioritizing people, fostering work-life balance, investing in development, cultivating purpose, embracing diversity and inclusion, promoting transparent communication and prioritizing health and wellness, these companies create a workplace where individuals can flourish and achieve their full potential. In doing so, they not only attract top talent but also inspire loyalty and commitment that drives sustainable success in the long run.
This article was originally posted on The Morning Call on May 14, 2024. Tina Hamilton is an Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) member in Philadelphia, and is the founder and CEO of myHR Partner.