Top Workplaces: Genworth wins third place for large company

“(In April), we brought back everyone two days a week,” says Chief Human Resources Officer Melissa Hagerman. “It was intentional that we create a space that is comfortable, has good communal space for interaction, on-site physical and mental health wellness centers, and a cafeteria with a barista. We want to give people a reason to get together again.”

Hagerman notes the importance of creating “loose ties” in a workplace – something that can only happen when people are working together. “These are interactions you gain when you run into someone in the cafeteria or walk into the building together or cross paths in the hall,” she says. “They’re helpful to feel engaged and included.”

Genworth’s financial and insurance offerings are designed with care and compassion in mind, Hagerman says, and the company relies on its associates to deliver those options in a thoughtful manner.

“Customer centricity can only be achieved when our associates feel engaged and empowered themselves,” she says. “It’s like the airplane instructions – put the oxygen mask on yourself first, then you can help someone else.”

The most recent employee survey showed employees believe Genworth to be living into its goals of Make it Human, Make it about Others, Make it Happen and Make it Better by fostering a culture that values inclusivity, compassion and collaboration.

“Everybody matters,” Hagerman says. “Everybody’s perspective and differences matter and are critical to who we are as an organization. We focus on solving challenges, being solutions-oriented. The sum is greater than the parts. We’re all in this together.”

Last year, the company created a group of associates – called Pathfinders – to review employee survey data and make policy recommendations, “so we can move the needle in areas where we may need a little help,” Hagerman says. As a result of the group’s efforts, the company’s intranet platform has been adjusted so it’s easier to use and has real-time information. The company has also introduced a peer-to-peer recognition program by which associates can applaud their colleagues’ work.

Genworth also encourages employees to be active in community service, offering 40 hours of paid volunteer time that can be claimed when an employee chooses. “They can pick whatever opportunity that resonates with them personally,” Hagerman says, noting that in 2023, Genworth employees donated 5,500 hours to more than 600 nonprofit organizations worldwide. “This goes back to people feeling they are part of something bigger than they are,” she says. “It’s amazing to watch.”

Hagerman says the goal is for employees to understand that they are valued for their full selves, not just as employees. “We want to make sure our associates feel cared for in terms of their overall well-being – emotional, physical and financial,” she says. “You have to have the three legs of the stool to make sure people feel like they’re cared for.”