Innovative ways to promote company culture in businesses of all sizes
Company culture is a bit of a loaded concept. It involves the way a company interacts with the public, its mission, and the atmosphere created for its employees. A good culture gives the public a positive view of a company and makes it easier to hire and retain good employees. Perhaps best of all, great company culture makes for a happier, more productive workplace. Creating good company culture can be done no matter the size of your business, as the following companies have proven:
Propeller, Inc. – Propeller, Inc. has a community service initiative—Propeller Uplift—which encourages its consultants to be involved with local nonprofit groups. Additionally, the company offers employees unlimited paid time off, encouraging them to take 23 days off each year, at a minimum.
Maptia – As a storytelling platform for travelers, photographers, and writers, it should be no surprise Maptia encourages travel. However, they took it a step further: moving their office to exotic locations regularly. The business started in Seattle but has since relocated to Chile, Morocco, Bali, and Switzerland.
StreamSets – An IT company that takes pride in its lack of micromanagement, StreamSets also provides a flexible working environment. Teamwork is encouraged and arrangements are made for alternative schedules and telecommuting.
Softwire – The U.K.-based software company has a budget for music lessons and morale which offers employees free music lessons from professionals. Additionally, Softwire allocates a percentage of profits for fun activities like picnics and parties.
REI – Employees participate in town hall meetings where they can submit questions anonymously to leadership. There are “challenge grants” where REI employees submit proposals for challenging outdoor activities and can be awarded free gear.
Radio Flyer – A company that has been around for more than 100 years, Radio Flyer still looks for ways to innovate. Ideas are taken from all employees There are no rigid processes in place as the company looks to evolve to reach its goals.
Engineerbabu – To create an equal environment, there are no designated chairs. This not only promotes equality, but also cooperation and interaction. Engineerbabu believes in hiring based on attitude, and that skills can be taught.
Zappos – Zappos has a “cultural fit” interview which is 50 percent of the decision as to whether to take on a new hire. Additionally, new employees are offered $2,000 to leave if they decide after the first week the job isn’t right, making sure people who want to be there are employed.
ALKU – A consulting firm, ALKU promotes play as a stress-reliever in the office. Employees can ride scooters while talking on the phone and throw stress balls around the office.
The Bateman Group – A PR company that features a bonus program when the company does well and gives each Bateman Group employee an annual fund to attend conferences or take courses.
Mavens – A remote workplace where employees are encouraged to interact on forums and everyone from new hires to executives message one another. There’s an annual conference in Chicago where Mavens employees meet in person and bond.
LEGO – The toy company promotes ideas through the opportunity to play with their products. It also encourages bringing children to work and letting them play to spark the imagination of LEGO employees.
RiseSmart – A “high five” program is in place which allows employees to call out their colleagues for being helpful or doing a good job. The “high five” program at RiseSmart also assists in celebrating birthdays and holidays.
Asana – Creates an open culture where people aren’t afraid to express if they’re struggling with a project or having a bad day. There are few set roles; work at Asana is given to the person best suited to the job who is then encouraged and empowered to complete it.
Squaremouth – An example of a company with complete transparency, Squaremouth shares all financial information and salaries with every employee. Decisions regarding hiring and raises are made as a group, fostering a more collaborative and communicative environment.
