This report was originally published by GlobeSt.
With more and more companies bringing their employees back to the office, now is an ideal time to examine the concept of where we work, or to be more specific, the best place to work. Conventional wisdom has it that offices must be designed for collaboration and creative work, as well as a cycling workforce that has adopted a hybrid schedule. This is, in fact, true in many cases. But we have gone further in the following pages, looking at the many moving parts that make up a good place to work. As you read through our selection of these offices, you will find there is a wide range of attributes, benefits and features that can go into a high-quality workplace and the company that provides it.
FOGELMAN PROPERTIES: Five years ago, Memphis-based Fogelman Properties created Fogelman Fit, an employee-led effort to get everyone up and moving through exercise and weight-goal challenges, periodic breaks for walks and healthy living tips posted around the office. While the pandemic put a damper on the program, COVID-19 compelled Fogelman—a pioneer in the multifamily industry—to take a broader look at workforce expectations and create options for remote work. On the diversity, equality and inclusion front, the firm uses inclusive job descriptions to reach talent, employs marketing outreach to promote its inclusive workplace, and institutes human resources training so that it can better support and train other departments. Furthermore, employees appreciate the firm’s company culture, which comes from the top. “This company is led by exceptional leaders who display character, integrity and genuine care for their employees,” says Amanda Borgognoni, resourcing and recruitment manager at Fogelman. ”They have created a culture founded on the basics of family where you are recognized and matter.” Fogelman employees enjoy their workdays through the efforts of the firm’s fun committee, comprised of volunteers that plan employee appreciation days, rewards and giveaways, and recognize birthdays, anniversaries and other notable dates. For more than 50 years, the fully-integrated property management and investment company has given an award annually to an employee who exhibits an above-and-beyond commitment to the firm’s values, has made significant and identifiable contributions to the profits and/or quality of Fogelman, practices the philosophy of teamwork and cooperation, and maintains a positive attitude of support and encouragement. Melissa Brady, VP of strategic marketing at Fogelman, initially joined the firm due to its outstanding reputation, and in the year since joining, she notes that “it has surpassed expectations” because of its investment in employee growth and well-being, in addition to the “everyday positive spirit in the workplace.” With 606 employees across eight offices, Fogelman offers education/tuition reimbursement; a learning management system that encourages career growth; and company-paid certification, training and testing. It has an employee assistance program that offers team members access to confidential counseling to help manage stressors or emotional difficulties. And, thanks to Fogelman CARES, employees have the opportunity to give back through volunteerism and donations.
