Tips from Top Companies on Employee Relations

The province’s top companies dish out advice on employee relations.

How is it that the top companies in British Columbia treat their employees? Below is their collective wisdom, reduced to its aphoristic essence.

“Ask not what they can do for you.”

Says Next Level Games: Create a personal development plan that isn’t about figuring out what work the employee is going to do over the year, but one that is about the employee, personally.

“Help society.”

Says Cactus Restaurants: Be socially conscious and participate in programs like the province’s apprenticeship program or the Vancouver Aquarium’s Oceanwise programs.

“Make them owners.”

Says Odlum Brown: Give the employees actual ownership of the company through a share ownership plan. That way, clients’ financial success becomes the employees’ financial success, benefiting everyone.

“Host an annual black tie ball.”

Says Flight Centre: Give the employees a reason to work hard by celebrating success through social events that recognize achievements.

“Buy them a Speedo.”

Says Integris: Encourage employees to maintain a healthy lifestyle with reward initiatives, like a brand new swimsuit or vouchers to a yoga class.

“Measure their EQ.”

Says Coastal Pacific Xpress: Provide training courses for employees that focus on their personal development, and not strictly on professional skills.

“Think like a mom.”

Says Nurse Next Door: Take care of your employees by supporting family commitments and flexible schedules that work for both parties.

“Open space = open arms.”

Says 1-800-Got-Junk: Create an inclusive and supportive environment for employees with an open-floor space plan.

“Feed them.”

Says Strangeloop Networks: Look for low-cost investments that help productivity, like stocking up the office kitchen with fruits and snacks to ensure there’s no growling stomachs.

“Be their sugar daddy.”

Says the Personnel Department: Recognize and reward hard work from employees with a gift.

“Exchange cash for calories.”

Says Summerland Credit Union: Offer cash bonuses for employers who go beyond in every realm of life, whether it’s taking up a new sport and getting involved in the community.

“Let them grab 40 winks.”

Says Nexon Publishing: “Make sure your employees are well rested and have a sharp brain for maximum creativity and productivity.”

“Give them a free day.”

Says Habanero Consulting: Clearly communicate responsibilities to employees, and in turn for a completed task allow them to devote a day to a personal commitment.

“Help them get green.”

Says AG: Embrace the environmental sensibilities of employees and get their input in creating a green strategy plan.

“Rev ’em up with new tasks.”

Says Threewave Software: Try giving employees fresh challenges and frequent breaks to keep motivation levels up.

“Have a Chief Fun Officer.”

Says Kryton: Build team spirit away from the office by tackling an extreme sport together.

“Give them a mascot.”

Says Benefits by Design: Send the company mascot, Benny the bee, on vacation. Find creative ways to represent your team, like with mascots who always goes along on company vacations.