LEADERSHIP
LARGE COMPANY
Richard Hays, Alston & Bird
Basis: Creates a positive culture. Relates goals and direction. Fair and consistent in treatment of workers.
Employee comment: Looks after employees (benefits package, appreciation of work efforts), communicates well about the business and what’s happening.
MIDSIZE COMPANY
Millard Choate, Choate Construction
Basis: Fosters a family environment. Involved on all levels. Open and honest. Hires the right people. Maintains solid support system.
Employee comment: The culture of the company in regards to work ethic, professionalism, quality and safety is second to none.
SMALL COMPANY
Bryan Miles, Miles Advisory Group
Basis: Visionary who pays attention to details. Creates atmosphere of teamwork. Cares about mission statement.
Employee comment: Truly understands the importance of putting people first — not using for [management’s] purposes but creating purpose for our people.
DIRECTION
Virtual Properties Realty
Basis: Manages expansion and growth. Encourages strong in-house working relationships. Takes care of agents and employees. Offers training.
Employee comment: The forward momentum of the company practically ensures that, if I continue to hone my skills, there will be opportunities for advancement.
MANAGERS
Wesleyan School
Basis: Supportive of workers, even after they make mistakes. Provides necessary resources. Responds to needs. Proactive instead of reactive.
Employee comment: Lets me do my job and is there for support when I need it. Does not try to micromanage.
NEW IDEAS
eVestment
Basis: Monthly sessions give workers a chance to present ideas. Hands out awards for innovation. Stages periodic and interesting special events.
Employee comment: They incentivize workers via competitions and promise rewards for ideas that are adopted.
DOERS
Integrated Financial Group
Basis: Treats employees with respect. Keeps them well-informed and answers questions. Work atmosphere emphasizes camaraderie and caring.
Employee comment: IFG is always exploring better ways of being more efficient and are very open to suggestions from group members.
MEANINGFULNESS
DMC Atlanta
Basis: Managers are hired only from within. Empathy from management is stressed. Workers can learn all aspects of the business. Travel opportunities are extensive.
Employee comment: It starts at the partner level, where integrity, principles and the genuine interest in those under your care are ever-present.
ETHICS
Meadows & Ohly
Basis: Honesty, with emphasis on integrity. Focus on customer service. Closes shop one day annually for a community day of service.
Employee comment: None available.
CLUED-IN SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Dorsey Alston, Realtors
Basis: Promotes helpfulness among agents. Concern from executive office is evident. Quickly responds to questions. Work atmosphere is light-hearted.
Employee comment: The owner is dynamic and innovative, and he is building the company into a force to be reckoned with.
COMMUNICATION
Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Southeastern Medical Center
Basis: Keeps workers updated via daily email, plus video and town-hall meetings. One-on-one sessions with managers are welcomed.
Employee comment: Consistent communication regarding changes and updates are available to us.
APPRECIATION
AmeriPark
Basis: Trusts workers to do their jobs without looking over their shoulders. Everyone is appreciated when a company goal is met. Holds staff outings.
Employee comment: I appreciate that I am not micromanaged. My supervisor trusts that I know how to do my job without constant supervision.
WORK/LIFE FLEXIBILITY
Innovative Architects
Basis: Flexibility is afforded regarding work time and location. Responsibility is granted to those who perform the job while on a long leash.
Employee comment: I appreciate the freedom to decide when and where I will work, as long as I get the work done and keep the client happy.
TRAINING
Van Michael Salon
Basis: “Service providers” undergo intensive training program. Weekly classes and ongoing educational courses are offered by staff. Annual company meeting includes creative summit with accomplished stylists and speakers.
Employee comment: None available.
BENEFITS
Woodward Academy
Basis: Exercise programs. Healthy lunches. Matching contribution to the retirement plan. Extensive medical insurance.
Employee comment: The non-monetary benefits are outstanding between health care, time off, flexibility and being given iPads.
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