10 Companies Winning at Workplace Culture
In today’s competitive business landscape, workplace culture is more than just a buzzword—it’s a cornerstone of success. Companies that prioritize employee wellbeing, inclusivity, and engagement are not only attracting top talent but also driving long-term growth and innovation.
Each year, Inc. Magazine’s Best Workplaces Editors’ List shines a spotlight on organizations that are redefining what it means to create an exceptional work environment. The 2024 list highlights 10 companies that are leading the charge in fostering cultures of support, collaboration, and growth.
These organizations are proving that workplace culture is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether through innovative policies, employee-centric programs, or a commitment to flexibility, they are setting new standards for what it means to invest in their teams.
BranchPattern: Building Inclusivity and Growth
BranchPattern, a Kansas City-based commercial construction firm specializing in hospitality projects, is a prime example of how inclusivity and development can drive success. The company has made a name for itself by prioritizing employee growth through initiatives like TeacHER, a women’s employee resource group focused on networking and professional development.
BranchPattern also offers extensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and certifications to help employees build new skills. Recent enhancements to their benefits include more paid time off, wellness incentives, and expanded mental health resources, showing a clear commitment to employee wellbeing.
FutureThink: Challenging the Status Quo
Based in New York City, FutureThink is a skill-building company that specializes in training leaders and teams. Recognizing the burnout and inefficiencies caused by outdated work structures, the company took a bold step with its “Kill A Stupid Rule” initiative.
This program targets unnecessary meetings, redundant processes, and other outdated practices that hinder productivity. FutureThink also prioritizes work-life balance by offering unlimited paid time off, fully remote work options, and even giving employees their birthdays off. Mental health support is another key focus, ensuring employees feel supported both on and off the job.
These companies, along with the others on Inc.’s list, demonstrate that workplace culture is not just about perks—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
GitLab: Embracing Remote-First Culture
Github, a pioneer in remote work, has set a benchmark for flexible and inclusive workplace culture. The company offers a “work from anywhere” policy, complemented by benefits like mental health support and a $1000 annual stipend for home office setup. GitLab’s transparency is evident through its public handbook, ensuring all employees are aligned with company values and goals.
UKG: Fostering Diversity and Inclusion
Ultimate Kronos Group (UKG) stands out for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company has implemented various employee resource groups and partners with organizations to promote diversity in the tech industry. UKG also offers flexible work arrangements and a strong emphasis on community involvement, making it a standout in workplace culture.
Notion: Cultivating Flexibility and Belonging
Notion, a workspace collaboration platform, prioritizes flexibility and employee well-being. The company offers a fully remote work option, annual team retreats, and a $500 stipend for remote work setup. Notion also provides a 10% “Notion Time” policy, allowing employees to focus on personal projects or learning, fostering creativity and growth.
T-Mobile: Leading with Diversity and Inclusion
T-Mobile has made significant strides in creating an inclusive workplace culture. The company offers various diversity and inclusion programs, including employee resource groups and leadership development initiatives. T-Mobile also provides tuition reimbursement, mental health resources, and a strong focus on community engagement, making it a leader in workplace culture.
Atlassian: Embracing Global Flexibility
Atlassian, a software company, has embraced a “Team Anywhere” approach, allowing employees to work from anywhere. The company offers flexible hours, a $500 annual work-from-home stipend, and a “Focus Fridays” program to reduce meetings and increase productivity. Atlassian also prioritizes diversity and inclusion, with initiatives aimed at increasing underrepresented groups in tech.
Robinhood: Prioritizing Employee Well-being
Robinhood, a financial services platform, has made employee well-being a top priority. The company offers flexible work arrangements, including a hybrid work model and unlimited paid time off. Robinhood also provides mental health resources, a $1000 annual stipend for wellness, and a 401(k) matching program, demonstrating its commitment to employee satisfaction.
Twilio: Fostering Belonging and Flexibility
Twilio, a cloud communications platform, has implemented various initiatives to foster a sense of belonging among employees. The company offers flexible work arrangements, including a hybrid work model, and a $1,000 annual stipend for remote work setup. Twilio also provides mental health resources, diversity and inclusion programs, and a strong focus on employee development.
HubSpot: Building a Culture of Transparency
HubSpot, a marketing and sales software company, is known for its transparent and employee-centric culture. The company offers flexible work arrangements, including a hybrid work model, and a $1,000 annual stipend for remote work setup. HubSpot also provides mental health resources, tuition reimbursement, and a strong focus on employee development, making it a leader in workplace culture.
Conclusion
In today’s fast-paced business world, workplace culture has evolved from being a mere buzzword to a critical driver of success. The companies highlighted in this list—such as BranchPattern, FutureThink, GitLab, UKG, Notion, T-Mobile, Atlassian, Robinhood, Twilio, and HubSpot—demonstrate that fostering a positive workplace culture is not just about offering perks but about creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
These organizations are redefining workplace culture through innovative policies, employee-centric programs, and a commitment to flexibility, inclusivity, and well-being. By prioritizing their employees’ growth and satisfaction, they are setting new standards for what it means to build a thriving workplace culture.
As businesses continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of work, these companies serve as inspiration for leaders looking to create cultures that attract top talent, drive innovation, and deliver long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a great workplace culture?
A great workplace culture is built on values such as inclusivity, flexibility, and employee well-being. Companies that prioritize transparency, offer growth opportunities, and foster a sense of belonging tend to have the most successful cultures.
What are some common practices of companies with top workplace cultures?
Top companies often implement practices like remote or hybrid work options, mental health support, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and employee development programs. They also emphasize work-life balance through policies like unlimited PTO and wellness stipends.
How can businesses improve their workplace culture?
Businesses can improve their workplace culture by listening to employee feedback, offering flexible work arrangements, providing mental health resources, and fostering inclusivity through diversity and inclusion programs. Transparency and clear communication are also key.
Why is workplace culture important for business performance?
Workplace culture directly impacts employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. A positive culture attracts top talent, drives innovation, and contributes to long-term business growth and success.