Ragan and PR Daily announces Top Places to Work, Class of 2021

The honorees for Ragan’s Top Places to Work, part of its Employee Communications Awards program, are recognized for creating exemplary culture and connection during a profoundly difficult year.

By Ted Kitterman
@tedkitkat
April 14, 2021

“Going to the office” has become a very different experience for workers since COVID-19 turned our world upside down. Commutes have shortened, workspaces have become digital, and everyone has learned so much more about their colleagues’ dogs, children and casually dressed roommates.

So, what is it that makes a “top place to work” in 2021?

Honorees for this year’s class said that it was being able to offer meaningful work to employees—and by helping them connect career success with an organizational mission and community engagement. These exemplary companies offered employees opportunities to give back and stand up for what they believe in. They create a sense of belonging by committing to a collaborative process while achieving lofty goals.

Most important, it’s the ability to put employees first.

Marathon Strategies, an honoree as a top place to work for organizations with less than 100 employees, explained how the contributions of its team members enabled the company to respond to the crises of the past year.

“While we have stepped up for our clients over the past eight months, we know we are not immune from the pandemic’s mental toll,” it says. “It’s why we’re emphasizing workplace togetherness more than ever—virtual happy hours, TikTok contests, talent shows, and a Halloween costume contest—anything we can do to smile, laugh, and de-stress together, even if just for an hour.”

ICMA-RC, an honoree for organizations with 100-1,000 employees, described its commitment to being a great place to work in terms of its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Women represent 49% of all employees (and 50% of top leaders) in the organization, and minorities represent 59% of all employees and 50% of executive leadership.

“A great workplace reflects a diverse workforce, not only within the organization, but also through its leadership,” the organization says. “We believe that talent from diverse backgrounds further enhance our ability to serve those who serve their communities, and as such, ICMA-RC is dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of our business.”

Here is the full list of Ragan’s Top Places to Work honorees for 2021: