We often proudly talk about the culture we’ve created at MMC, and the upcoming annual International Happiness at Work Week is always a fantastic time to shout it from the rooftops.
But when one of the team writes so eloquently and generously about it, and the positive impact it has on them personally, we just had to hand over the mic to them…
“Where to even begin…
…trying to explain the culture of MMC Research to an outside body who can’t live and feel and breathe the everyday multiple little micro boosts you get as an employee here.
Let’s try!
Natasha (our fabulous Founder and CEO) has created an environment where openness, understanding and empathy are fundamental aspects of the business.
Every employee is encouraged to embrace their own individuality but also that of their peers. We focus on ensuring people are safe and are given positive reinforcement in the best way for that employee to receive it. This seeps into everything we do but, for example, some employees want the team to be aware of their achievements with public recognition, whilst others prefer a quieter, more simple written email giving thanks and praise. These individual preferences are taken on board and adhered to, to ensure our comfort level is maintained.
It’s the big gestures and small affirmations that are just etched into our everyday working environment giving that security blanket of protection. If you haven’t experienced it within a working role, it is really difficult to describe the level of emotional freedom that comes with knowing your manager and colleagues have your back.
Going above and beyond
MMC goes above and beyond when it comes to their people, and this is evident in the way I was onboarded. Joining the team on a part-time basis after time out following maternity leave, I was absolutely blown away by the level of flexibility which was afforded to me. I was asked how many hours I wanted to work, when I wanted to work, how I work best, what areas do I feel I need extra support with, and any concerns I may have.
However, the most telling of all of this was Natasha’s reassurance that I can take time to get to know the team, get to know the systems, procedures and policies, get to know our ethos and key principles when it comes to client engagement and not to push myself too hard too fast from the outset to ensure I didn’t burnout.
MMC isn’t about profit by any means necessary. We don’t cut corners to squeeze out every penny; we charge a fair price for a committed and highly skilled workforce. This means we can be focused and dedicated to undertaking a great piece of work for our clients without having to be underhanded behind the scenes. We can be upfront, honest and clear to ensure client satisfaction from start to end.
A wholeheartedly positive philosophy
The whole philosophy at the heart of the business is to leave a positive legacy on the local community. Whilst there are activities which improve the region and receive public notoriety (which I am proud of), there are also countless examples where knowledge is provided to clients without expectation. Connections and introductions are made. Time, effort and resource are given merely just to support and encourage the North East to be a more competitive player on the national and international stage. All of this whilst maintaining a high level of community spirit. We want to be thought leaders when it comes to doing business differently not just in the NE but across the UK.
We want to showcase ourselves by doing things differently, what is achievable when small businesses think innovatively. We’re not here just talking about what is possible in business where kindness, equality and collaboration are at its heart, but also openly inviting others along for the ride.
I am proud of this amazing team I am part of and the superb level of service we give to our clients, I can’t imagine my life without MMC.”