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Here's a look at what takes some beyond ordinary

 
Realtor Craig Beggins starts off each day by leading a cheer and giving a pep talk to agents in his Apollo Beach office. An employee says an open-door policy shows that management is tuned in.
Realtor Craig Beggins starts off each day by leading a cheer and giving a pep talk to agents in his Apollo Beach office. An employee says an open-door policy shows that management is tuned in.
Published April 28, 2012

Keswick Christian School: Meaningfulness

Business: Education, 54 employees

Question to workers: What do you find most meaningful about working for your company?

"The teacher/student relationships are very incredible to watch and see."

"Getting to share my faith and love for the Lord. Teaching a young generation about God and loving the kids."

"I hope that the work that I am doing is helping Christian students to get a foothold for living productive lives for God."

Century 21 Beggins Enterprises: Clued-in senior management

Business: Real estate, 119 employees

Question to workers: What impresses you most about senior management's understanding of what is happening in this organization?

"I love how open our managers are. They have an open-door policy so if I ever need anything, they are there to help."

"Their knowledge of the real estate industry."

"Their commitment to the staff. They are available and in front of the team literally every day, conducting professional training, leading by positive example, and demonstrating a strong work ethic themselves. They go the extra mile to be motivational in a positive manner. They stress they are there to help the team succeed, and readily accept suggestions and implement ideas offered by team members."

Trenam Kemker Scharf Barkin: Appreciation

Business: Law, 197 employees

Question to workers: How does your workplace show its appreciation for your efforts?

"I feel especially appreciated at Trenam from the support I received from the firm during my illness, and I have seen where they have been there for other employees, which makes me extremely proud to be a part of this firm."

"Interaction with group and firm leaders; fair compensation."

"I receive a lot of work, which is a compliment. I am told I am appreciated. People come to me for guidance on issues."

Banker Lopez Gassler PA:

Opportunities

Business: Law, 151 employees

Question to workers: What career opportunities at this company do you value most?

"Reimbursement for continuing education and memberships in organizations for my position."

"Training and experience."

"I am given the freedom to do my job in a manner which best suits my working style. No one micromanages the day-to day-operations."

Capital One: New ideas

Business: Financial services, 592 employees

Tuition reimbursement isn't unusual within companies.

But the Tampa operation of Capital One recently took that one step further. It not only gives $5,000 toward earning a degree, but it started a pilot program awarding scholarships covering tuition and books to five full-time area college students who work part-time at the company.

The Tampa program, which will likely be replicated through the Capital One family, is but one example emanating from a corporate culture that encourages new ideas.

George Snyder and Bill Jacobs, Capital One's on-site directors, regularly meet with employees in small groups to discuss their concerns and suggestions.

Among the adopted ideas from employees: converting vending machines so they accept Capital One credit cards, much to the relief of workers scrounging for nickels and dimes.