Nominations open for Top Workplaces

The Chicago Tribune is seeking nominations for our 12th annual Top Workplaces special report, in which we explore how organizations create and sustain a positive and productive culture. We’ll also compile a list of this year’s top workplaces in the Chicago area.

A top workplace is successful because its employees enjoy their work, embrace their mission and feel like valued teammates. Last year’s winners — there were 140 of them — found new ways to maintain a company culture during trying times.

A year ago, workplaces were operating on the fly, responding to events over which they had no control and putting programs in place to address health, safety, equity and inclusion concerns. Are those changes sticking this year? How is the definition of workplace changing and how are organizations helping employees thrive?

To qualify for consideration as a top workplace, an organization must have at least 100 employees in the Chicago area. Nominations are open to all employers, including nonprofits.

Now through July, nominated companies that agree to participate will distribute to employees an easy-to-complete, confidential survey developed by the Tribune’s research partner, Energage, which will calculate the list of top workplaces. In the past year, Energage has surveyed more than 2 million employees at more than 7,000 organizations on these topics.

There is no fee to participate. Top performers will be recognized in the report and in an online directory. Plans for an event honoring the winners will be determined at a later date. To nominate a company, go to www. chicagotribune.com/ nominate or call 312-8787356. The deadline for nominations is May 7.