FLORENCE – Give employees a healthy workplace where they feel valued, and they’ll feel more inclined to give quality service with a smile. It’s a fundamental principle that has helped earn a local business statewide recognition.
First Reliance Bank was among the four recipients of the highly competitive Psychologically Healthy Workplace Award.
Designed to spotlight companies and organizations that strive for positive working conditions, this award is given annually by the South Carolina Psychological Association.
“In this time of high job stress and increasing demands on employees, these exemplary workplaces have made it a priority to create environments that are sensitive to the psychological well-being of their workers,” SCPA President, Dr. Scott C. Shaffer, said in a press release. “By rewarding these businesses and organizations for their efforts, we hope others will take notice and implement similar programs in their workplaces.”
Businesses were judged on the level of employee involvement in daily practices as well as the level of company support for the health and well-being of employees and their families. McLeod psychologist and SCPA member, Dr. Carol Adams, said that the selection process is comprehensive and detailed.
“During site visits, we point out employees at random for interviews, and these interviews typically last an hour,” she said. “This is one of the best methods for determining just how effective a company has been at creating a working environment that is psychologically healthy for its workers.” Rick Saunders, President and CEO of First Reliance, said it was no accident that the bank earned the award.
“We set up a culture within our business that is consistent with the values of this business,” he said. Fully funded health insurance, childcare reimbursement, profit sharing, a 401K plan, health and fitness membership assistance, and tuition reimbursement for employees wishing to develop their business skills are some of the ways in which First Reliance has demonstrated its commitment to employees, Saunders said.
South Carolina Bank and Trust, which operates a Florence branch, also received the award for establishing a wide array of employee benefits.
Other winners were Home Telephone, Inc. and Lady’s Island Elementary School. Recipients were honored during the SCPA’s spring conference in Myrtle Beach on April 2.
Van Rowell Marketing First Reliance Bank 2170 W. Palmetto St. Florence, SC 29501 843-269-0264 vrowell@firstreliance.com
