#22 Vodori
Agility is defined as the ability to move quickly and easily, and Gen Y lives and breathes the word. At a company like interactive marketer Vodori, the ability to move within and beyond the organization goes a long way in attracting Gen Y employees. The added perks make work a little exciting, too.
"Essentially, our entire company is comprised of Generation Y," says Co-Founder Nathan Kurtyka. "They bring tech savviness, a diversity of thoughts and ideas, and an attitude that is willing to challenge the status quo. In a business that helps other businesses grow their brands online, it's a critical component for success."
"Many of our new ideas stem from and our implemented by our Generation Y employees. Recently, one of our new employees created a cutting-edge mobile phone app that eliminated business cards and moved conversations online for a major conference. It's hasn't been done before. It's innovative, led to new business, and was driven completely by the minds of Gen Y employees," says Kurtyka.
For those who have no experience, it's still very possible to flex that agility muscle. "For our entry-level positions, we're willing to give anyone a shot," says President Scott Rovegno. "We frequently have people applying with little to no web experience, but a deep passion for how and why they want to learn. If someone is willing to put in the hours to learn and is passionate about the web, we'll teach them. We open the door to see what people are capable of."
Consultant David Shapanka says Vodori is "a very 'real' place to work." For him, the freedom given to employees helps him get the job done well. "We don't really have a dress code and the hours are relatively flexible. It's a fun atmosphere. People are always joking and hanging around the coffee pot." Shapanka adds that the company recently took the day off to go to a Cubs game and enjoy a few beers. "It's not one of those stiff places to work," he says.
However, that doesn't mean employees don't take their work seriously. At Vodori, there are plenty of opportunities. "They've given me the ability to go in whatever direction I want with my career," says Consultant Stephen Sper. "We have regular review sessions to help reach my next career goal." The agility Sper has at work has made him a happy camper. Says Sper, "It's the best job I've ever had."
