At VIMY HR, we're passionate about helping businesses create thriving workplaces where employees feel valued and engaged. Today, we shine the spotlight on Calvert Home Mortgage, a 50-year-old, family-run company with big goals. But achieving this ambition wouldn't be possible without their biggest investment: their employees.
Beyond the Desk: Recognizing the Whole Person
Vered Levant, VIMY HR's Founder, emphasizes, "Employee recognition is about acknowledging and valuing the whole person. We are so much more than work. Building a personal connection with your team helps in fostering a sense of belonging." And Calvert Home Mortgage embodies this philosophy to the core.
Family Values Run Deep
As a second-generation family-owned business, Calvert Home Mortgage truly lives and breathes their company values. The commitment to their employees goes beyond just compensation and benefits. They understand that people are individuals with unique aspirations and challenges and strive to create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Calvert Home Mortgage’s values are Service, Trust, Education, People and Solutions; these are the STEPS the team take everyday.
Creative Recognition Sparks Joy:
Forget impersonal plaques and trophies. The brainchild of President & CEO, Dean Koeller, the "Bucket List Program” allows employees to show off their personal aspirations on a shared wall inside the office. The opportunities are limitless, and employees take the program seriously. The activities have ranged from concerts and sporting events to even a hot air balloon ride. The company contributes up to $500 annually to help achieve the bucket list goal. Employees then share their completed experience on the wall. As the wall is in a highly visible section of the office, it's a great way for coworkers to learn more about each other.
Quarterly Check-Ins with the CEO:
Imagine having a heart-to-heart with your company leader every three months. At Calvert Home Mortgage, this isn't a reverie; it's a reality. Dean personally meets with each employee for an hour, focusing not just on work performance, but also on their well-being. Employees complete a short questionnaire prior to their meet-up. Dean then uses those answers to steer their conversations towards career path advice, overcoming personal challenges and even offering mentorship. This genuine approach builds trust and fosters a true sense of psychological safety. Growth and accountability are a big part of Dean's philosophy, and he often shares tips and strategies with team members.
Building a Strong Foundation from Day One:
Calvert Home Mortgage hires with the philosophy of culture fit versus experience. Candidates are vetted for their values and goals, ensuring they align with the company's care-oriented environment. Tailored training gives employees what they need to succeed and allows them opportunity for advancement. They meet monthly with their direct supervisor to check-in about their work and their life in general.
And new hires aren't thrown into the deep end. Within the first month, Dean personally welcomes them through a full-day, group onboarding session. The aim is to foster camaraderie and further understanding of the company's history, values, and collaborative spirit. This sets the stage for a positive and supportive work environment from the very beginning. Initially, Dean had these days set aside as one-on-ones. But he quickly realized that a group setting put the new employees at ease and quickly established new bonds of friendship.
Celebrating Together, Growing Together:
Calvert Home Mortgage understands work isn't everything, but it's more meaningful when shared with your colleagues. That's why they host three annual events and ensure to include their out of town employees:
A Christmas party with personalized gifts for families, creating lasting memories for young and old alike.
A Stampede BBQ in the company's parking lot, encouraging team spirit and fun outside the office.
An annual family BBQ hosted by company founder Everett Koeller, bringing investors and staff together to celebrate the achievements of the past year.
The Impact is Clear:
With big goals and a rapidly scaling workforce, Calvert Home Mortgage’s commitment to employee well-being and recognition is translating to tangible results:
Low Turnover: Stands out in their field. Their dedication becomes a selling point during recruitment, highlighting the genuine care they provide.
Increased Productivity: Happy employees are productive employees. The focus on well-being fosters a positive work environment where individuals are engaged and motivated.
Exponential Growth: The company has grown rapidly in the past 5 years, from 15 to 50 employees with plans to scale even more in the coming years. And their investors see consistent returns year on year.
Awards and Recognition: Calvert Home Mortgage has been recognized by Waterstone Capital Canada as "Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Culture" for two years running, a testament to their successful approach. They have platinum status and Top 100 employers in Canada set in their future sights.
Work-Life Balance: The company prioritizes their employees' well-being and avoids unnecessary overtime. This commitment to work-life balance fosters a loyal and dedicated workforce, driving growth and success.
"People Make the Difference" - Julia Smithers, HR Manager, Calvert Home Mortgage
Julia Smithers, HR Manager at Calvert Home Mortgage, sums up their unique approach to employee recognition. "We truly believe that our people are our greatest asset," she shares, "Our programs aren't just about checking boxes; they're about building genuine connections and fostering a sense of belonging. When employees feel valued and supported, they're more engaged, productive, and invested in the company's success."
The VIMY HR Takeaway:
Calvert Home Mortgage is a shining example of how prioritizing employee well-being, fostering a sense of community, and celebrating achievements can lead to a thriving and successful workplace. They consistently exceed their targets year on year. By taking a page from their book, you too can cultivate a culture where your employees feel valued, engaged, and ready to reach their full potential.
Calvert Home Mortgage has already demonstrated their commitment to their people with the above programs. Now they are taking it even further with our partnership, building their EVP and HR development programs. We are proud to work alongside them. Ready to invest in your greatest asset? Contact VIMY HR today and create a winning workplace culture.