What it means to work here

Citation

Erickson, T.J. (2007), "What it means to work here", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 15 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/hrmid.2007.04415ead.008

What it means to work here

What it means to work here

Erickson T.J., Gratton L. Harvard Business Review (USA), March 2007, Vol. 85 No. 3, Start page: 95, No. of pages: 8

Purpose – To discuss the basis of highly productive employee-employer relationships. Design/methodology/approach – Argues that matching the benefits and talent management programmes offered by other companies is not necessarily the most effective way to acquire and retain committed and enthusiastic employees. Suggests that it is important to explain to new and prospective employees what it is like to work at the firm and to articulate the values and attributes that make it a unique experience. States that providing a “signature experience” to tell this story can empower people who share the company’s values and enthusiasms to self-select into working there. Describes a signature experience as “a visible, distinctive element of an organization’s overall employee experience” and a powerful symbol of its culture and values. Analyses three signature orientation experiences at Whole Foods Market, Trilogy Software and The Container Store. Draws attention to the general principles used by companies that successfully create and communicate signature experiences. States that they target a segment of potential employees; address specific business needs; identify and preserve business history; share stories; strive for consistency; and resist the temptation to be all things to all people. Points out that people will become long-term, deeply engaged employees only if their work experience is what they expect it to be and if the firm’s values and attributes match their own. Originality/value – Highlights the importance of compatibility between the organization and its prospective employees.ISSN: 0017-8012Reference: 36AG622

Keywords: Employee attitudes, Job satisfaction, Values, Corporate culture, Induction, Organizational performance