Best Places to Work 2014: Star Staffing

PETALUMA -- There's an old saying about friends being the family we choose for ourselves. Lisa Shugarman and Nicole Smartt, owners of Star Staffing, take that sentiment a step farther and think of their staff as the family they have chosen.

Recently an employee got married and the entire office was invited. The same is true of kids' birthday parties, baby showers, anniversaries and other family events. That family atmosphere of compassion and support extends into the workplace and is a key reason employees find that Star Staffing is a best place to work in the North Bay.

"We are very caring and supportive toward each other. It's a nice environment to go to work to in the morning," Ms. Smartt said. She added that managers make sure to express their appreciation for employees in both words and deeds. Employee achievements are celebrated and "we always say 'thank you.' A sincere 'thank you' means more than anything to staff," she said.

The American Staffing Association sets aside one week in the month of September to celebrate employees. "We have an employee appreciation month instead of an employee appreciation week. We honor our staff through all of September," Ms. Smartt said.

The company hands out gift cards. Sometimes on-site massages are available, and a flat screen TV was given away.

"Our employees are the foundation of our company," Ms. Smartt said. "We work hard to make sure they know that."

Show Comment