What does it take to build a company culture that employees want to be part of?
During a recent Synergy webinar, members heard from LMS Building Systems, Five Star Mechanical, and Gardiner about the programs and practices they’re using to strengthen employee engagement, reinforce company values, and create a workplace where people feel supported.
Each company shared a different approach, giving members practical ideas they could adapt within their own organizations.
LMS Building Systems: Putting Employee Safety First
For LMS Building Systems, caring for employees extends beyond the workplace. John Kotek shared the company’s Safe Ride Home Program, which gives employees access to company-funded Uber rides when they need a safe alternative to driving.
The program removes common barriers by allowing employees to use the benefit without requesting manager approval or explaining their circumstances. It’s a simple way LMS demonstrates its commitment to employee well-being and reinforces a culture of safety.
Five Star Mechanical: Making Culture a Dedicated Responsibility
As Five Star Mechanical grew, its leaders recognized that maintaining personal connections and reinforcing company values required more intentional effort.
Stacey, Scott, and Talor shared how the company created a dedicated Culture Coach position focused on communication, connection, and celebration.
From onboarding and employee check-ins to leadership development and recognition, the role helps ensure that culture remains a priority as the company continues to grow.
Gardiner: Recognizing the Behaviors That Matter
At Gardiner, client feedback helped shape an approach to company culture centered on the behaviors that create positive experiences.
Daniel Babic shared how the Gardiner Way establishes clear expectations for how employees interact with customers and one another. The company’s High Five recognition program reinforces those behaviors by encouraging employees to recognize coworkers who put them into practice.
With approximately 88% participation, the program has helped make recognition a visible part of everyday work.
Learning from Each Other
One of the most valuable parts of the conversation was hearing how each company approaches culture differently. Members also discussed the challenges of measuring culture’s impact on retention, particularly when compensation and labor market conditions remain significant factors.
The session reinforced that building a strong culture requires ongoing attention, employee involvement, and a willingness to evolve as the business grows. Through conversations like these, Synergy members can learn what’s working for their peers and bring new ideas back to their own teams.
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Synergy Solution Group gives leaders from independently owned commercial HVAC companies a trusted place to share what they are trying, ask candid questions, and learn from the real-world experiences of their peers. Learn more about joining Synergy.
