It's well known that a happy workforce delivers outstanding customer service, and we're delighted to have been recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the Best Small Companies To Work For in the UK.
In our inaugural year in the list, Vanarama finished in 26th position overall. At the 2017 awards, we shot to number 18, and Andy Alderson, Vanarama's CEO and founder, was named Best Leader.
Our staff have the opportunity to tell it like it is!
The award is based on staff feedback from a rigorous survey, where employees are quizzed about pay, conditions, leadership, teamwork and wellbeing. The results are then benchmarked against hundreds of other small companies. Only those deemed 'extraordinary' achieve the three star status.
Commenting on the awards, Andy said: "You're only as good as the people you surround yourself with, and I've got a fantastic team. I love their drive, and their passion for the business and its customers – they are definitely what makes us so successful. In turn, one of the company's biggest commitments is to facilitate the well-being and continuing development of our employees – I've always believed that if you look after your people, the rest will take care of itself. That these awards are based on the opinions of my staff makes me especially proud – both of them and the business we are building together. What a great start to 2017, I'm delighted!"
So why should this matter to you, our customer?
The survey, which is carried out by an independent consultancy, also asked our staff their view of the service they provide their customers. "Bearing in mind that the survey is anonymous, giving staff the freedom to express their true views, we are especially thrilled with these results," says Managing Director, Andy Alderson. Highlights included 100% of staff agreeing that at Vanarama, we provide a great service to our customers, with a full complement of staff also agreeing to the statement that our organisation is constantly seeking to improve the service we offer.
Looking after our team that look after you
Emphasis is put on wellness at Vanarama with staff partaking in yoga and relaxation sessions on Thursdays. There is also the opportunity to have a massage at work and free local gym membership. A total of 89% of staff believe their manager takes an interest in their wellbeing. A weekly running club called 'Runarama' was introduced at the start of the year and has been instrumental in helping to get employees active and fit.
"Like any successful small business, we have to evolve with our environment in order to grow," continues Alderson, "So I'm delighted that all our employees have the vision and understanding that, in order to get the best for our customers, we never stand still. Also, that the investment we place in our employees is targeted, not only at them getting the most out of their working environment, but at the company providing outstanding service for its customers," concludes Alderson.
Commenting on our staff engagement with themed days such as 'bring your pet to work' and 'how orange can you go' Best Companies commented "These days are hugely successful in generating both goodwill from employees and enhancing their wellbeing overall both in and out of the workplace."
Read our profile page on the Best Companies website for more insight and details as to why Vanarama were placed as the 18th Best Small Company To Work For in the UK.
