Companies like Edward Jones, NVIDIA, and Marriott International have earned top rankings on Great Places to Work lists, largely due to their strong Human Resources (HR) practices. These organizations show how effective HR strategies create positive work environments and support managers in leading successful teams.
Edward Jones (#24) is known for its purpose-driven culture and emphasis on employee well-being. Its HR department invests in mentorship, professional development, and values-based hiring. These practices help managers foster supportive, ethical, and collaborative teams.
At NVIDIA (#5), HR focuses on innovation, continuous learning, and inclusion. With 95% of employees reporting satisfaction with their roles, the company’s people-first approach clearly works. Managers are empowered by HR through leadership training, recognition programs, and a strong emphasis on team collaboration. These systems allow managers to build high-performing, engaged teams.
Marriott International (#8) stands out for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and internal career growth. HR initiatives prioritize employee pride, clear communication, and cultural awareness. Managers receive training to lead diverse teams effectively and ensure all employees feel respected and valued.
My Idea of a Manager:
These are some of my thoughts on what it means to be a good manager. In the simplest terms, managers oversee and lead groups of people to a common goal. A good manager does this by planning, organizing, leading, and facilitating. Of course, this is much easier said than done. To meet company goals, a manager must be able to deal with various personalities, conflicts, tough decisions, prioritization, etc.
They must also balance the needs of the team with the demands of the organization, all while maintaining clear communication and staying adaptable in a constantly changing environment. Being a good manager isn’t just about giving directions, it’s about building trust, solving problems, and helping others grow. It requires patience, empathy, and continuous learning.
Citations
Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® 2025. (n.d.). Great Place to Work®. https://www.greatplacetowork.com/best-workplaces/100-best/2025