Scott Zimmerman, owner of ZimmerGraphics in Barberton, says that to motivate his employees — 80 percent of whom are GenXers — he took a few lessons from his mother, Fran Doll. He thinks of them as individuals and treats them as he’d want to be treated.
Considering the technological and creative mindset of the employees who produce ZimmerGraphics’ creative specialties, Zimmerman says he doesn’t force employees to conform to a corporate dress standard.
“Nobody wears a tie in here. You can’t relax, be creative and produce if you’re not comfortable. It just can’t be done,” Zimmerman says.
The company also offers complete flex time. “Like today, two of my guys got the afternoon off to paint the apartment they moved into over the weekend, because otherwise, it would be hanging over their head. Tomorrow they’ll come in fresh and ready to work again,” Zimmerman says.
ZimmerGraphics regularly rewards employees with bonuses based on company-wide goals achieved. And, so employees can “blow off steam” during times of stress, ZimmerGraphics incorporated a mini-gym, a pool table, an 85-foot putting area, a dart board and a stereo system into its “wide-open” 4,000-square-foot office area.
“It’s like, ‘Givers get.’ If I give, you’d be surprised how much production I get out of these guys,” Zimmer says.
How to reach: ZimmerGraphics (330) 848-8448
