Company Culture: The culture at Kaeser & Blair (K&B, asi/238600) is rooted in one word: respect. “It’s the top reason people love working here,” says Gregg Emmer, vice president/chief marketing officer at the Top 40 firm. “We show sincere appreciation for everyone’s contribution to the company’s success, and we always maintain corporate integrity.”

Emmer noted that the K&B team especially appreciates the company’s “family environment,” as well as the generous vacation program, flexibility in work scheduling, fun activities, and company-sponsored extras like ice cream vendors in the parking lot on hot summer days.

COVID Changes: K&B has operated a hybrid remote work/in-office model for years, so when COVID-19 assailed, the firm was prepared. “We were able to quickly and efficiently expand the remote platform to include most of our staff,” says Emmer.

Keeping staff and sales pros engaged and performing at a high level has always been of paramount importance for the company. That hasn’t changed during the COVID era. “We’ve achieved this by utilizing online meetings and continual personal communications, as well as motivating through gifts, awards and recognition,” Emmer shares.

Parting Tip: Show team members that they’re valued and treat them with respect. “While a good pay scale is important to most people,” says Emmer, “how they’re treated is in many circumstances even more important.”