At NTC, we are incredibly proud to have been named one of Inc.’s Best Workplaces for the second year in a row. This recognition is a testament to our vibrant, fully remote workforce and the intentional culture we have cultivated. Research shows the positive impact a highly engaged workforce has on customer satisfaction, attracting prospective clients, and increasing revenue compared to a semi-engaged workforce. In my experience, a great culture doesn’t just happen; you must be purposeful and diligent.

As Chief People Officer, I attribute our success to three core principles: Lead to Grow, Demand Engagement, and Hire Smarter. These principles are not just abstract concepts; they are actionable strategies that we embed in our daily operations and long-term planning. They guide how we develop our leaders, engage with our team members, and select new hires. By focusing on these areas, we create a cohesive and motivated workforce that drives our company forward.

Step 1: Lead to Grow

Creating a thriving culture begins with leadership. At NTC, we ensure our leaders are not just managers but committed thought leaders and coaches. They align their decisions with our company values, foster transparency, and lead by example every day. This approach builds trust and lays a solid foundation for a positive workplace environment.

Step 2: Demand Engagement

Engagement is non-negotiable at NTC. We reject the paycheck-only mentality and instead promote a culture of collaboration and accountability. By actively seeking and acting on feedback, we maintain a dynamic connection across our dispersed workforce. Regular pulse checks help us stay agile and responsive to our team’s needs, ensuring we continually evolve and improve.

Once you invest in your leadership and create an authentic workplace, you are ready to embrace the right people to join your organization and add value to your culture. The right people will thrive in your environment, align with your values, and want to be a part of something bigger than the job they fill. It is only with these earlier steps in place that we are able to attract and develop the right people.

Step 3: Hire Smarter

Our recruitment process is designed to attract individuals who not only have the right skills but also align with our values and culture. We strive to provide a great candidate experience that offers insight into how we work together. This approach ensures that new hires are eager to contribute and will thrive within our company, adding to, and further enriching our culture.

Our Cultural Practices at NTC

We believe that a strong culture should resonate not just internally but with everyone who interacts with our company. I’ve always believed that you are creating the right environment when folks bang down your door to either get into your company or steal all the amazing people there. Here are a few ways we make that happen:

1. Surveys and Feedback: We conduct various surveys throughout the year, such as Onboarding and Pulse surveys. Acting on feedback and communicating our actions is crucial in building trust and continuous improvement.
2. Social Connectivity: We encourage participation in groups that enhance social connection and company impact. We support diverse interests and initiatives, from Slack channels for parenting or pet owners to employee groups focusing on development standards or DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging).
3. Virtual Office Platform: Our latest initiative is a virtual office platform that adds a new dimension to remote work. This innovative tool allows us to move beyond Slack and Zoom, providing a more immersive and interactive experience that helps us stay connected on a personal level.

At NTC, our culture is not just a set of values on a poster. It’s a lived experience that permeates every aspect of our work. This intentionality in fostering a positive, engaged, and inclusive workplace is why we continue to be recognized on Inc.’s Best Workplaces. Our doors are always open to those who share our vision and values, and we look forward to continuing to grow together.