Money Isn't Everything to Workers in Small Businesses; A Company's Culture and Their Work Satisfaction Matter More

Alexandria, Va. (August 29, 2007) — In every job interview, the question about salary hangs heavy in the air between the candidate and the hiring manager. For those seeking jobs in small businesses, however, that may be the last question on their minds.

A recent national survey shows they may care more about the company's culture -- the values, how people work together, a sense of community, and whether the leaders "walk the talk" of teamwork and recognition for outstanding work. They also may value satisfaction in their work and faith in their management more than the almighty dollar.

The leading reason employees like working with small companies is "company culture," small business executives said in a national survey this August. More than two-thirds believe this is very or somewhat important to their workers. "Satisfying work" ranked second with these executives; "a sense of being involved," third; and "faith in management," fourth.

The National Association of Professional Employer Organizations, or NAPEO, surveyed 352 small businesses across the nation in early August. Their answers revealed their recruiting challenges and expectations for changes in their workforces, and their firms' compensation and benefits, in the next year. Given their employees' mindset about what matters most, small businesses may need to rethink their strategy for finding workers.

Recruiters from professional employer organizations, or PEOs, advise small businesses to sell the company as a great place to work. Underscore the desirable aspects of the company's culture; for example, emphasize a policy on community responsibility and mention that the company caters to working mothers. Give examples of how people work on projects together and communicate day to day.

"Small businesses have distinct cultures, where the leaders express certain values and encourage individual expression and professional development. That can really appeal to job candidates," said Milan P. Yager, executive vice president of NAPEO. "As long as the salaries are competitive, they may focus more on the cultural attributes than the income."

Courtesy of NAPEO

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