What Great Companies Show About Work and Management
After looking at the 2025 Fortune Best Companies to Work For list, one company that stood out to me was Edward Jones. A lot of what employees say about working there connects closely to ideas we’ve discussed about human resources (HR) and effective management.
One thing that really stands out about Edward Jones is how much they focus on training and mentorship. Employees aren’t expected to figure everything out on their own. Instead, the company provides structured training and ongoing support, which helps people feel more confident in their roles. This connects to what we’ve learned about employee development and why investing in workers leads to better performance and higher retention.
Another important part of Edward Jones’ culture is trust and communication. Employees often talk about feeling supported and respected by management. This ties directly to concepts like employee engagement and motivation. When people feel heard and valued, they are more likely to stay committed and put in effort at work.
Thinking about my future, I’d want to be the kind of manager who supports their team while still holding people accountable. HR practices such as performance reviews, feedback, and conflict management will be important in helping me do that fairly. I also think one of the hardest parts of being a manager will be handling difficult conversations without damaging trust or morale.
Overall, Edward Jones shows how strong HR practices can shape a positive workplace. It makes it clear that good management isn’t just about results—it’s about supporting people, building trust, and creating an environment where employees can succeed.
