Culture is the Heart of Our Organization

We aren’t trapped in cubicles all day, and there isn’t a time clock to punch. Our Moleskines are crammed with doodles; we travel the world; we work from coffee shops; and our CFO is also our beer czar.

 

We Take Our Culture Very Seriously

In 2012, the entire staff created our Culture Map, which stands today as our North Star. It visualizes the behaviors and values at the center of our organization, provides clarity and direction for our employees, creates a filter for hiring and retaining staff, serves as a common language for mentoring and coaching, and provides employees with inspiration and a sense of belonging.

 

People, People, People

Because we protect our culture like the Hope Diamond, we are very particular about the people we hire. The qualification process extends well beyond a resume and a cover letter. Potential hires participate in phone interviews, one-on-one interviews with the hiring manager, and 360 interviews with representatives from each department. Depending on the position, the interview process might also include daylong evaluation sprints, an interview with the CEO, or a contract-to-hire trial period. Although there are many hurdles to jump for both our staff and the potential new hire, in the end, it ensures all new hires are more than just qualified; they are a strong cultural fit within our organization.

 

Creating an Environment for Culture to Thrive

  • Everyone is treated like an adult. That may sound like a no-brainer, but when you dig into how organizations manage themselves, you start to notice a lot of rules that feel very similar to junior high, e.g. you will be here between the hours of 8-5; you will follow this dress code; you will ask permission for everything; etc.
  • One full working day per month is set aside (and protected) to focus on individual and organizational innovation. This means no client work and no company work. We call it xDay.
  • Each month employees are allotted $200 for services that make their life easier. This can take the form of housekeeping services, massages, gym memberships, parking fees, etc.
  • You can work from wherever you please whether that be your home, a coffee shop, a park, or a cabin in the woods; it’s up to you.
  • PTO is bankless. Take what you need, when you need it.
  • Learning new things is not just supported; it’s encouraged.

 

Don’t just take my word for it. . .