As a major employer within the local market, SureWest recognizes
the value of good employees. We encourage a working environment
that promotes employee growth, recognition and work/life balance.
Our corporate philosophy is to provide an atmosphere that is professionally
challenging, rewarding and fun.
- Employee Recognition Programs
- An Open Forum
Employee Recognition
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
In January 1998, SureWest rolled out its Employee Recognition
Program. This program has been instrumental in increasing employee
satisfaction, creating teamwork among employees and accomplishing
part of our mission of having fun. The program consists of several
components including:
The BRAVO Award: Given to any employee,
by any employee, for providing service above and beyond expectations.
The recipient receives $50 in gift certificates of his/her choice.
The employee is recognized in front of peers and management. The
BRAVO Queen (in a cape, gold shoes and tiara) can be scheduled to
present the award to the recipient (song included at no charge!).
The employee is also given a button to wear and poster to display
at his/her workstation.
Employee of the Quarter: Each quarter, five
employees from each functional area of the company are recognized
for outstanding contributions to the company and following the company's
mission. A company-wide celebration, in honor of the employees,
is held to recognize these employees. Recipients are awarded a cash
prize, entertainment or sporting event tickets, a prime parking
spot for three months, a framed certificate presented by the Vice
President of his/her section, and an article in the monthly company
newsletter.
Employee of the Year: Each year, one employee
is recognized for his/her outstanding contributions during the prior
year. A company-wide dinner is held in honor of the recipient and
to recognize significant awards received by other employees throughout
the year. The President/CEO presents a plaque to the recipient.
The Employee of the Year recipient is also awarded either a cash
prize or a 3-day, 2-night getaway (his/her choice).
Referral Awards: Cash award given to employees
who refer another employee to work at SureWest Communications.
Education Awards: Employees who have worked
for SureWest for at least two years are eligible
to receive cash awards for completion of higher education (Associate's
Degree, Bachelor's Degree or professional certification).
Great Idea Awards: Any employee who submits
an idea that saves the company money or generates revenue is eligible
for a sizeable cash award.
Open forum
Two-Way Communications: An Open Forum
Management at SureWest believes in open communication
with its employees. After all, most of our employees are also shareholders.
Keeping them informed keeps operations running smoothly. It helps
SureWest remain at the forefront of technology and growth within
the markets we serve. Ways in which we provide an open forum include:
Annual and Quarterly Results of Operations Meetings:
Management meets with employees each quarter to review our earnings
reports and how we are doing as a company. Employees are encouraged
to ask questions about corporate performance, stock trading corporate
goals, or any other issue of interest or concern.
Brown Bag Meetings: Once per month, a member
of our executive management committee hosts a lunch open to all
employees. These monthly lunch meetings cover various topics of
interest to employees. They may address a company-wide initiative
for new billing software, or a specific section’s goal to
make some major process improvement. This provides another forum
for employees to openly ask questions about areas of interest or
concern.
Annual Awards Ceremonies: At each awards
ceremony, such as the Employee of the Quarter and Employee of the
Year (EOQ and EOY) events, members of the management committee address
our employee population with candor, honesty, and a sense of humor
and camaraderie. They talk about our progress and growth as a company,
while acknowledging employees who have contributed to the company’s
success. Most company-wide meetings are held at various times and
location, as well as video-taped so all can partake.
Annual Benefits Meetings: Our human resources
team make every effort to fully inform and educate our employees regarding
our benefit options. Trained representatives are available to assist
employees in choosing and managing their benefits.
Open-door Policy: SureWest operates with
an open-door policy, allowing employees the opportunity to have
their questions answered and their voices heard. Management and
supervisors are trained and encouraged to offer an honest, open,
and supportive environment with their employees.
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