Some companies purposely create cultures which are aimed at employee satisfaction which not only helps these corporations retain quality workers, but it encourages these individuals to become more creative. Therefore; these forward looking employers have discovered a win-win in their work environment.

What are some of the elements of a workplace that employees enjoy forking for?

• The best companies put their employees first. I remember reading, years ago, that the CEO of Whole Foods (back when it first started) was very simple: He put the customer first, his employees second, and the corporate bottom line third. This was quite a departure from the normal focus on the bottom line first. The best companies invest in the quality of life for their employees, well beyond just competitive wages.
• The smartest workplaces help employees find and cultivate their passions. In so doing, an environment is created where the employee not only enjoys coming to work, but they are far more likely to add valuable contributions to the company.
• Companies are realizing that the most important asset they have is their employees and they have found that having these individuals truly care for and be involved at personal levels is conducive to an excellent workplace. So, these wise companies invest time and resources to bringing people together in creative ways.
• By encouraging employees to work and think like they are owners of the company, people who take ownership of their work are born. This empowers the individual while improving morale and output.
• Finally, when individuals are truly valued for being themselves, an environment for safe self-expression is created. Within such a workplace, skills and strengths an employee may not even be aware of, are developed and encouraged.

The modern, progressive employer has learned to it is to everyone’s advantage to create atmospheres that are inviting, supportive, encouraging, and forward-thinking. Please read the excellent research by Michael O’Malley, Ph.D. who is managing director at Pearl Meyer and the author (with Bill Baker) of the recently published, Organizations for People.

The information, I condensed here, was entitled “What the ‘Best Companies to Work For’ Do Differently” and I encourage you to read the entire piece on the Harvard Business Review here.