Business bywords come and go. Once ubiquitous descriptors of the workplace become clichés. And even innocuous phrases often take on undertones that may eventually overwhelm their usefulness.
A prime example of a word that’s perhaps lost some of its luster in recent years is “family” — particularly in the phrase “we’re like a family” — as it applies to business.
Where once “family” could be relied on to conjure warm attitudes and meals together, now those who use the word risk calling forth the specter of Michael Scott. Outlets like The Atlantic publish pieces with titles like “The Dark Side of Saying Work Is ‘Like a Family.’” And well-intentioned HR professionals expressing a sense of camaraderie run the risk of alienating jobseekers who may be leery of the phrase.
But while it’s easy to caution against clichés, jobs demand description. As long as workplaces advertise openings, jobseekers will need words to understand those potential workplaces.
This month, Built In Chicago asked leaders from four tech firms to put their exceptional workplaces into words.
Adyen is a payments platform providing a modern end-to-end infrastructure that connects directly to Visa, Mastercard and other payment methods across online, mobile, and in-store channels.
What makes Adyen a great place to work?
Within Adyen, we have a specific way that we work together that is guided by our core principles, which we call the “Adyen Formula.”
Adyen embraces empowerment. Companies understand that execution is key to success, but many fail to promote an environment that allows people to execute their ideas and play to their strengths. Regardless of position, Adyen empowers people to make decisions and take calculated risks. This helps the business scale and raises the performance bar.
We create our own path. Employees are encouraged to think about what is important to us and choose a path that is impactful and gives us the most joy. We are then given the opportunity to create and take exciting career leaps in any direction.
We also build for the future. At Adyen, we hire specifically to meet our long-term technical and commercial needs. Throughout all stages of Adyen, we have been efficient and disciplined regarding how many people are required to solve problems and grow our business.
How would you describe Adyen’s culture in a single word?
The one word I would use to describe our company culture is “connected.” Adyen values its employees. Everyone feels accepted and valued and has a sense of belonging. At Adyen, we truly are one global team. We have offices across North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific region that collaborate on a daily basis. By creating this culture, it allows us to share ideas quickly and work as a global team.
THE PERKS
- Adyen+ — a monthly stipend toward wellness or personal goals
- Unlimited vacation policy
- A global exchange program — employees travel and work with teams around the globe for up to three months at a time
- Adyen equity — every team member is granted some form of equity
- Professional development benefits — including time allotted for learning new skills and gaining knowledge within the financial technology space
The Heico Companies is a parent holding company for a diverse portfolio of manufacturing, construction and industrial services businesses.
What makes Heico a great place to work?
Heico is a great place to work because of the company culture, which includes work hours, benefits and traditions. There is also a sense of community by celebrating milestones and special events and giving back to the community by sponsoring different charities and fundraisers. In addition, Heico trusts their employees by providing flexible schedules, remote work options and generous vacation plans.
How would you describe Heico’s culture in a single phrase?
Professional development. Heico provides opportunities to grow as a professional by offering education classes through LinkedIn and also access to attend seminars and conferences. In addition, they provide leadership and management training.
THE PERKS
- Electric charging stations at the office
- High-end coffee machine and free beverages at the office
- Flexible work schedules
- Wellness programs
- Benefit plans that include healthcare, 401(k) match and HSA contributions
Atlas is an expertise-enabled technology platform that delivers flexibility for companies to expand across borders, onboard talent, manage compliance and pay their global workforce.
What makes Atlas a great place to work?
Atlas is a people company. We help organizations connect with talent from all over the globe through solutions and software. What enables this and makes Atlas a great place to work is our people!
We have nearly 500 employees across more than 30 countries, which makes us a truly global and diverse community, reflected at all levels of the organization. Everyone brings a unique point of view that is valued and heard. This kind of inclusive environment isn’t just something you see in writing; it’s truly because of the connection and community we all feel with each other.
How would you describe Atlas’s culture in a single word?
Diverse. We truly embrace the variety of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences our nearly 500 global team members bring to Atlas. This sets the tone for a collaborative company culture that boosts creativity and innovation. In one day, I can speak with colleagues in China, hold a coffee hour with teammates in Brazil and have lunch with the team in Chicago. This unique dynamic changes how we, as a company, approach challenges. It’s fascinating.
The diversity within our organization can be seen at all levels. Regardless of where you are in the world, there are growth opportunities and initiatives put in place to ensure that voices are heard.
At Atlas, we believe the right perks can boost employee engagement, impact retention, and lead to happier employees!”
THE PERKS
- Unlimited PTO — “We want our people to enjoy a healthy work-life balance and take the necessary time to unwind or for personal obligations.”
- Remote and flexible working — “We prioritize our employee's well-being, so it's essential to provide the opportunity for our team to work from wherever makes sense to them.”
- Access to the CEO and executive team — “We want our employees to know they have a voice and that it's being listened to.”
CoinFlip is a cryptocurrency ATM operator that enables in-person users to buy and sell bitcoin via cash, card and bank transfer.
What makes CoinFlip a great place to work?
The people! CoinFlip’s culture is an easy selling point to joining our team. Once you step foot into our offices and meet our team, you will not want to work anywhere else. There is an energy and positivity that you can feel when you’re in the office. At CoinFlip, we care about and support our employees while also challenging them to grow within the company.
How would you describe CoinFlip’s culture in a single word?
Inclusive. CoinFlip is a company that makes everyone, regardless of who they are or what they do for the business, feel equally involved and supported.
THE PERKS
- All of the perks of the Old Post Office — including a rooftop with basketball and pickleball courts
- A reimbursement for the Old Post Office’s Boxcar Gym
- A seat at the table — “No matter your role in the company, your opinion is always valued.”
- Competitive benefits and compensation
- A $15-a-day lunch delivery voucher
