In a year filled with gloomy employment news, from federal employee struggles to AI-related job loss predictions and record-high layoffs, it's refreshing to uncover the bright spots. Amidst the doom and gloom, 175 Massachusetts companies have been recognized as Top Places to Work, offering a glimpse of hope and positivity.
These companies are going above and beyond, offering month-long paid sabbaticals, fertility benefits, and even company-sponsored trips like skiing and fishing. Some, like Sunrise Erectors, provide free on-site daycare, while others, like ScrubaDub Auto Wash Centers, offer financial coaching. And who wouldn't love a golf simulator in the office, as seen at Gupta Media and D.A. Sullivan & Sons?
This generosity, gratitude, and fun-filled culture is not just a coincidence. It's a deliberate choice made by these companies to create a positive work environment.
Energage, a survey company based in Exton, Pennsylvania, surveyed over 120,000 Massachusetts employees at 314 organizations to compile this year's Top Places to Work list. The workers rated their employers on various metrics, including leadership, values, training, and benefits. The rankings are categorized based on company size, ensuring a fair comparison.
One industry that's particularly thriving is real estate. All four of the top-ranked companies are in the property business, and it's easy to see why. Real estate offers flexibility and doesn't require a college degree. With the housing market rebounding, there's ample opportunity and satisfaction to be found in helping people find their dream homes.
One of the winning companies, LAER Realty Partners, goes the extra mile by sending out a Thanksgiving email that recognizes each of its 800+ agents and highlights their value to the company. It's a heartwarming gesture that shows genuine appreciation.
But it's not just about perks and recognition. Winning companies are also implementing structural changes to improve the employee experience. Some are rethinking performance reviews to make them less daunting and more beneficial. Others are offering business etiquette classes to help remote workers transition into in-person professional interactions.
So, while the working world may have its challenges, it's not all bad news. There are employers out there who truly care about their employees and create environments worth embracing.
Explore the full list of winners and discover the companies that are making a difference.
- Top largest companies (1,000+ employees)
- Top large companies (250-999 employees)
- Top medium-size companies (100-249 employees)
- Top small companies (50-99 employees)
- Check out the full special issue
And if you want to be part of this positive change, visit bostonglobe.com/nominate to participate in the 2026 Top Places to Work Survey.
Let's celebrate these companies and their commitment to creating a better work environment!
Contact Katie Johnston at katie.johnston@globe.com or follow her on Twitter @ktkjohnston for more insights and updates.
