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Google, Facebook and Southwest Airlines are among the top five companies on job search site Indeed’s “Best Places to Work for 2017” list. You may not have the resources of these large companies, but you can incorporate some of their ideas into your company’s culture.

Respect. The best companies cultivate a culture of respect, according to a poll conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management. Leaders listen to staff and vice versa. Employees feel valued by their leaders and their coworkers regardless of their background, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or gender.

Opportunities for growth. Leaders at the best companies evaluate staff regularly and look for ways to challenge them in new areas. Many of these companies have developed mentorship or cross-training programs to prepare staff for more advanced roles.

Communication is key. At the best companies, leaders and staff talk constantly. The organization regularly seeks feedback about its culture, practices, and operational challenges. Leaders are accessible and open to discussion about business problems and successes.

Clear goals. The best companies openly state and clearly define objectives, and the steps required to achieve them, according to Fortune magazine. Status updates or one-on-one meetings between employees and their leaders allow regular discussion about progress towards employees’ individual goals.

Accountability. The best companies make sure workers are confident they’ll be rewarded for performance and held responsible for achieving their objectives, according to a study conducted by Fortune.

Bottom line: When you treat your employees with respect and keep challenging them, they’re less likely to leave for greener pastures.

Gilliland & Associates, PC is a full-service CPA firm specializing in tax planning for individuals and businesses in the Northern Virginia area. We are based in Falls Church, VA and also service clients in McLean and Tysons Corner, VA. Gilliland & Associates is known for our superior knowledge and aggressive interpretation and application of tax laws. We help you keep more of your earnings by finding you the lowest possible tax on your business or personal tax return. You can connect with us on Google+, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.