Code Computerlove on how to become a great place to work

The process involved in making the list analysed two surveys, one completed by the business detailing company policies, practices, benefits and demographics; the other completed by employees outlining levels of satisfaction. Code was included in the prestigious list based on glowing feedback provided by its employees around categories like their manager, team and company as a whole, opportunities for personal growth, wellbeing, getting a ‘fair deal’ and ‘giving something back’.

So how did we do it? The survey answers themselves give more than a few clues:

• 96% of staff believe they can make a valuable contribution to the success of the company and feel valued in the organisation;
• 99% agree that the senior leaders live the core values of the organisation;
• 96% feel that they can express their honest opinions without fear of consequences;
• 99% agree that they are given enough authority to make decisions they need to make;
• 100% of people feel proud to work for Code.

In a nutshell, we work hard to create a package that’s valued by employees and which supports positive well-being at work. Some of our most notable benefits include the legendary ‘Code Christmas do’ that’s open to the whole agency and that’s seen the team jet off to places such as Barcelona, Berlin and Krakow.

Other ways that we look after our staff is with a monthly ‘looking after yourself in work’ session run by physio expert Altius Healthcare, subsidised massages and health cover (health insurance as well as dental and eye cover). There is often an office dog around the workplace to keep a smile on people’s faces, regular running clubs and a bike allowance.

Supporting career progression is another major area of focus, with every team member given a £500 personal training budget, coaching/mentoring, regular in-house knowledge share sessions and schemes that encourage collaborative working.

Energetic and open plan, the 13,000 sq ft offices that Code occupies today are full of quirky features and perks enjoyed by its 91 staff. The flexible work spaces have also been carefully designed to engender a strong culture and collaborative workforce. Even details like providing a personal headphone and laptop bag allowance has been considered. The offices and working spaces are designed to let creativity flourish – and the fun areas are not just there as a gimmick, they give people the chance to socialise and take well-earned breaks.

Code is a business of people – very talented people; we have no product other than people working well together, so we believe it makes sense to go over and above to listen and respond to ways we can make working at Code the best it can be.

Tony Foggett is CEO and owner of Code Computerlove.