Why Employees Love Working at Fortune’s Top Companies
In today’s competitive market, employees are looking for more than just a paycheck. The best workplaces prioritize culture, support, and meaningful contributions. Here’s a closer look at three companies from the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® 2020.
#19 Navy Federal Credit Union
As the world’s largest credit union, Navy Federal serves military members, veterans, and their families with a mission to put members first.
Why Employees Love It
93% feel good about the company’s community impact.
93% feel welcomed when joining.
92% believe customers rate the service as “excellent.”
91% recognize the value of the company’s special benefits.
91% are proud to work at Navy Federal.
#20 CarMax
CarMax revolutionized the used car industry by prioritizing integrity, honesty, and transparency. With more than 245 locations, nearly 30,000 associates, and a strong commitment to community, CarMax has been a Fortune favorite for 20 consecutive years.
Why Employees Love It
94% feel welcomed when joining.
89% trust management’s honesty and ethics.
89% feel valued, regardless of position.
89% feel good about the company’s community impact.
89% appreciate the ability to take necessary time off.
# 24 Capital One
For over 30 years, Capital One has been reshaping the banking industry with its innovative use of technology, data, and analytics. This global financial leader employs over 50,000 associates and is known for its adaptability in a fast-changing world.
Why Employees Love It
94% feel welcomed when joining.
92% appreciate the ability to take necessary time off.
91% are proud to work at Capital One.
90% believe management is skilled at running the business.
90% feel entrusted with significant responsibilities.
Common Threads in Great Workplaces
Despite differences in industry and mission, these companies share key HR practices that set them apart. They provide a welcoming onboarding experience, flexible policies that support work-life balance and personal well-being, and ethical, competent management. These companies actively engage with their communities and foster a strong sense of empowerment and job satisfaction by ensuring employees feel valued. By implementing these practices, they create a positive employee experience that leads to motivated, high-performing teams.
Reflection
As a growing leader, I want to be a manager who values the employee experience while maintaining organizational excellence. One of the most challenging aspects of a manager’s role is aligning people and performance. However, I believe that creating engaged and satisfied employees will ultimately lead to high performers who achieve their goals.
When I think about the kind of manager I want to be, I think of the type of managers I’ve looked up to the most. These managers are present, value diversity and differences in opinion, and encourage ideas and feedback. They follow structured training and development programs to help employees grow while coaching them to achieve both performance and personal/professional goals.
I believe that a great manager cultivates a sense of goal ownership, holds individuals accountable, and fosters inclusive and engaged teams through servant leadership. Becoming a successful manager comes with challenges, however HR will play a crucial supporting role. HR functions will assist by implementing handbook policies, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, facilitating training and development, and providing guidance on corrective actions when necessary.
Citations
Fortune 100 best companies to work for® 2020. Great Place To Work®. (n.d.). https://www.greatplacetowork.com/best-workplaces/100-best/2020