One of the takeaways from the EDSymposium19 best practice panel presentations, from chapter members Gretchen Renz, CDFA, and Emily Meyer, CDFA (of Bernardo|Wills Architects), was that if a firm’s culture is not built on a foundation of mutual respect and trust, investing in the culture with donuts or cool toys does not have long term effects. 

Some of the fun things they do: 

• Birthday program: Cards are routed through the office for everyone to sign. They also send cards to spouses/partners and kiddos (the kids also get a $10 bill).
• Friday breakfasts
• Summer patio parties: This is also a marketing effort. Consultants and clients from major projects are invited to their own patio party to thank them and celebrate together.
• Team-building raft trip
• Afternoon planking group/fitness
• Telemedicine benefit: This is separate from the firm’s regular group medical plan. It includes employees and their dependents (including those that do not opt in to the regular plan), and many have their adult kids on it as well.

At Bernardo|Wills Architects, putting their people first is good business.

What fun things does your firm do for your staff or clients?