Top Workplaces selection process

For the eighth year, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Energage (formerly WorkplaceDynamics) have partnered to determine the Atlanta area’s Top Workplaces.

More than 2,300 companies were nominated or asked to participate in the 2018 rankings after metro area employees responded to print and online solicitations that began appearing in September.Energage, a Philadelphia-based employee research and consulting firm, then surveyed 256 metro companies that agreed to participate in the no-cost program.

More than 55,000 metro workers participated in the survey. They were asked to respond to a set of statements using a seven-point Likert scale. Each statement was tested to ensure a high correlation with how metro employees rate their workplaces. This was calculated by correlating the statement responses to a control question that asked each employee to rate his or her workplace on a scale of zero to 99.

The resulting top 150 list consists of 25 large companies (500 or more employees), 50 midsize companies (150-499 employees) and 75 small companies (149 or fewer employees). Another 15 companies are honored as WorkPlace Achievers — they scored high enough to meet national standards but not high enough to crack the top 150.

Once the survey was completed, Energage ran a series of statistical tests to look for questionable results and determine whether disqualifications were needed. The company also drew up a list of special awards based on standout scores on specific survey statements.

A common theme crystallizes in the articles about these companies that have earned the loyalty and affection of their employees: They have invested as much in their employees’ well-being as they have in tangible perks. The reward for the company can be measured in satisfied customers and on the bottom line.

These companies should be considered the best metro Atlanta has to offer.