Edward Jones strives to do little things that make workers happy

Edward Jones employees view themselves as an overgrown family.

That’s what helped the financial services firm rank No. 4 among small companies as a top place to work.

“It goes back to the roots of the company and the founder who was treated poorly in his previous occupation and wanted to develop a firm where the employees were taken care of,” said Wendell Whitman, general partner. “In a corporate culture, clients come first, but employees are not too far after that.”

Edward Jones is a partnership owned by nearly 15,000 limited partners and about 350 general partners. All associates are eligible to become partners and share in firm revenues, Whitman said.

“That partnership means a lot to us because we control our own destiny,” Whitman said. “We work together to achieve that. Some 24 percent of the profits every year go into profit sharing and employees are vested immediately.”

During the recession, associates banded together to cut costs and saved every job. Not one associate has been laid off and the firm continues to hire financial advisers and branch office administrators. Partnership is part of the culture, Whitman said.

The company offers such benefits as free wellness care; discounts if you quit smoking or lower blood pressure and cholesterol; adoption assistance of up to $5,000 per child; and $5,000 in annual tuition reimbursement. Employees have autonomy over schedules, which includes telecommuting and shortened work weeks.

“There are a lot of little things that add up for employees,” Whitman said. “We do a lot of social interaction and the families are involved. We celebrate successes together.”

Volunteerism is another part of the company culture, with associates getting a paid day a year to volunteer in the community.

Employees praised that practice along with their ability to balance their jobs with their personal lives.

“I have the freedom to run my business, and also take time for my family, health and recreation,” one employee said.

“I have the flexibility to have my own hours and my own business,” another employee said. “The back office support is wonderful, and I get to help people achieve their financial goals every day.”

Another said they are given the opportunity to make a difference in the company. They are asked their opinions and allowed to present ideas and make suggestions for improvements.

Whitman said the practices of Edward Jones are what others should follow.

“If I were trying to create a better company somewhere, the first thing I would follow is the Golden Rule,” Whitman said. “We aren’t perfect but we try hard to do what is right for our clients and employees. Do unto others resonates here.”