What Employees Really Think About Their Bosses and Companies: Top Workplaces 2025 Revealed

CLEVELAND, Ohio — What do employees say about their bosses and their “Top Workplaces”?

We picked some of the best responses from employee surveys to feature. Here’s what they said:

“I love my job because…”

Mega workplaces

“As a first-time full job straight out of college, I feel as if the company really cares about helping me develop my professional skills, as well as care about my personal wellbeing. I love that there are different community groups that we can join, and I love that the company as a whole operates on inclusivity.” – Southwest General Health Center employee

“I love being able to help people at their most vulnerable moments. Being able to bring someone peace in some of their hardest moments is what I strive for and get to accomplish every day in my position.” – Southwest General Health Center employee

“I can make an impact on both customers and my fellow associates. There is always room for improvement and growth. I feel that I can achieve both with help from upper management.” – Sherwin-Williams employee

“I have been here for several years and have seen the positive changes of the company. I have the ability to learn on my own and promote ideas to my team. My team and management are always open to new ideas on how to make things better for us and the company.” – Sherwin-Williams employee

“Huntington’s core values align with my own and I believe the work we all do matters to the success of the bank and to the communities we serve.” – Huntington National Bank employee

“I am led by example, not by direction. The company has core values that I believe in. I always want to do better, to be better... to help our customers and colleagues in any way I can!” – Huntington Bank employee

“I get to come to work every day and help others. I feel like what I do for the patients and their families matters. My colleagues and I treat every patient like we would treat our friends and family.” – Cleveland Clinic employee

“I know my voice is heard by co-workers and leadership. My work environment is welcoming, kind and friendly. I can truly say I have fun at work with my patients and co-workers. The benefits are possibly the best in the industry - health insurance, employee discounts, PTO, retirement. Employee engagement is a priority and is encouraged by leadership and co-workers.” – Cleveland Clinic employee

“I continue to believe in the growth potential of our company and industry, and as a front-line customer-facing employee, I can see the impact our software has on our customers’ businesses and the appreciation they have for us.” – Hyland employee

“I love my job because I can really be myself, share my opinions, disagree if needed. My feedback is heard. I am empowered to make decisions and to explore greater ideas.” -Hyland employee

“I love the free coffee. Also, my manager is pretty great.”– Hyland employee

“I feel that I am making an impact in Global Services and how the product is delivered to the Customer. I believe in our product, our people and our future.”– Hyland employee

“We work as a cohesive team that understands and supports one another. The work/life balance that Medical Mutual provides is top notch in the industry.” – Medical Mutual of Ohio employee

“Medical Mutual is an inclusive company. I have never felt discriminated against, and I feel my voice is always heard regardless of gender or race.” – Medical Mutual of Ohio employee

“It is a new adventure every day. I come to work feeling challenged but energized.” – Medical Mutual of Ohio employee

“I enjoy what I do and love working with people in other departments of the company. When you enjoy doing something, the days go by rather quickly. I am always able to learn something new each day, whether it be work related or about someone that I work with.” – Medical Mutual of Ohio employee

“I am able to bring my best. I am being heard and also given feedback that helps me grow both as a person and as an employee.” – Progressive Insurance employee

“I am encouraged to be my authentic self - and I know everyone else is too. Sometimes this can be challenging, and Progressive doesn’t shy away from that. Our leaders are compassionate and encouraging - we celebrate disagreement! This is the way!” – Progressive Insurance employee

“I enjoy the flexibility this job affords me to be there for my family while being able to provide for them.” – Progressive Insurance employee

“I feel valued by the company that I work for. I can see the difference that I make in other agents lives for the better and that gives me peace of mind.” – Progressive Insurance employee

For the 2025 Top Workplaces list, cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer compiled more than 180 stand-out Northeast Ohio employers based on employee surveys. Find the full list and stories on the top three winners in each of four categories at cleveland.com/top-workplaces.

Large workplaces

“It’s not just a job for me, it’s a calling. Every day, I ensure that the right caregivers are coming in for the right reasons and I’m also helping educate individuals on how to properly care for individuals based off their care plan/chronic illness. It’s enlightening to empower an individual that wants to help other people and really set them up to succeed.” – Home Instead CLE employee

“I have nothing but phenomenal things to say about Home Instead, I love this job and everyone that is a part of it, I am very grateful to be a part of this team!” – Home Instead CLE employee

“I get to play apart in seniors having the opportunity to age in place. I love it when I hear or see the exhale of relief when a family member realizes we can help. I get to work with a team that has become my family. I love my job because I feel like I make a difference!” - Home Instead CLE employee

“I can influence others to become better versions of themselves, which strengthens our company and its endeavors to be the best in the industry.” – National Interstate Insurance employee

“I have the opportunity to do more than just what is in my job description. It is not something I am required to do, but as someone who has ambition to move up in my career, it is very nice to be able to help on things that are “above” my job level.” – National Interstate Insurance employee

“My direct supervisor is invested in my success and a helpful resource. The caseloads are manageable to promote work life balance and enhance customer service. Upper management is transparent and supportive.” – National Interstate Insurance employee

“It motivates me to get up every day because I have the opportunity to help change people’s lives for the better.” – CrossCountry Mortgage employee

“Every day I come to work my fellow employees and managers make me feel like I’m a superstar. They are all fun to work with and they are all good employees.” – CrossCountry Mortgage employee

“I enjoy collaborating with the people I am surrounded by and being a contributor. Being mentored by great leadership here has enabled me to advance my career and develop my skillset to obtain the career growth I have been searching for.” – CrossCountry Mortgage employee

“I am able to work in my community. I grew up in the Cleveland Area and it feels great to work with client’s that are a representation of the Cleveland area. I also love my job because I get to supervise therapists working with inner city Cleveland clients, being able to understand them on a deeper level...not just textbook.” – The Centers employee

“I am serving the community. I am empowered to make decisions in the community to best serve our clients. Collaboration and support from all facets of the organization are excellent.” – The Centers employee

“I get to help people and work in a team approach to better serve clients attain stability. I also love being given the opportunity to grow, learn a new skill set, and be a leader supervisors can depend on.” – The Centers employee

“I always dreamt of being a taco chef. My mom used to tell me ‘There ain’t no such thing as a taco chef!’ Well...guess who is still alive? The taco chef!” – Charter Foods employee

“There are no struggles. When I need help, someone is always capable of knowing what to do in any situation when I don’t.” – Charter Foods employee

“I am given opportunities to further my career. My direct managers are very supportive within the guidelines that Charter Foods permits.” – Charter Foods employee

“I am able to help people perform better and provide themselves and their families with a better life while driving the company in the right direction. I also know we do right by our customers.” – Leaf Home employee

“I am valued, able to grow in my career, and upper-level management cares and pays attention to what is going on in the company. And business is booming! Love my job at the Leaf!” – Leaf Home employee

“I love my job because it challenges me to grow, allows me to connect with others, and gives me the opportunity to make a positive impact every day.” Leaf Home employee

“I know that I’m making a difference. I know the role I play ultimately helps take the bank to the next level and keeps us ahead of the competition.” – Fifth Third Bank employee

“Every day is different. I get to interact with all types of people in my role. I feel advocated for by my leadership. I’ve had plenty of opportunities to show up and be recognized for my contribution.” – Fifth Third Bank employee

“Fifth Third is an ethical company that ensures we are consistently being challenged to continue improving our business methods and practices. We’re also encouraged to work collaboratively with other teams to gain expertise and perspective from professionals within their scope of work in order to ensure our product output remains best in class.” – Fifth Third Bank employee

“Allows me to have a good balance of my work and life. As well as having an environment I’m always looking forward to when going to work.” – Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers employee

“it’s very flexible and the environment is very positive. It’s always something to do even on ‘slow days,’ and it’s easy to adapt to. It’s like a second home!” – Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers employee

“Everybody is extremely welcoming and friendly! I’ve never had so much fun at a job before. Genuinely one of the best places to work.” – Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers employee

“I am able to provide direction and management of team members in providing excellent care and appropriate interventions with patients and team members. This job is my mission.” – Hospice of The Western Reserve employee

“I get to use my brain daily and develop new skill sets. I feel I can grow within the organization and feel that the team behind me will help push me there.” – Hospice of The Western Reserve employee

“I love my job because it challenges me to be the best version of myself because I have opportunities to learn. I also love my job because the core values of the agency are the ones I live by in my personal life.” – Hospice of The Western Reserve employee

Mid-size workplaces

“No drama environment! This is very hard to find in this industry.” – McDowell Real Estate employee

“When working at McDowell Real Estate, you are considered as a family member. Our company is incomparable to any others in the industry as our opinions truly matter and our owners do everything to support our best interests.” – McDowell Real Estate employee

“I feel important, I am celebrated often and recognized. I am given the tools to succeed and constant training which allows me to work confidently. I have help from my team and leaders whenever I need, and the culture is absolutely amazing. I can finally say for the first time in my life that I love my job.” – McDowell Real Estate employee

“This has been an amazing opportunity for me to see what I am capable of after working in a different industry for almost 30 years. I feel supported. I’ve never walked away from any situation feeling judged or criticized. The culture nurtures growth and development.” – Rocket Mortgage employee

“It really is what you make it. Being a motivated individual, this job rewards hard work which is appreciated.” – Rocket Mortgage employee

“Every day I wake up in the morning, I grab my things I prepared for the day, not knowing what the day may bring. Ultimately, I feel excited and ready to learn and grow to be a better sale’s person and to help people with their financial goals and dreams.” – Rocket Mortgage employee

“My job is always something different. It keeps me on my toes. I also like that I can work from home or the office.” – The NRP Group employee

“It challenges me to learn and grow, both professionally and personally. I am trusted but also have people I trust. I feel accepted.” - The NRP Group employee

“I am encouraged to innovate, think outside of the box, and challenge the status quo, even if it means challenging the decision-making of leadership. This can be done productively and is fostered at NRP. I truly feel empowered to shape my career here.” - The NRP Group employee

“I work in a supportive environment. Pay and benefits are top of the industry. It allows me to provide for my family along with plenty of family time.” – PITT OHIO employee

“They work with you instead of against. The benefits are great. I just love the people I work with I’ve never had a job I like as much as this one.” – PITT OHIO employee

“I love my job because every day is different, it keeps me engaged with problem-solving, and I work with a supportive team that helps get things done efficiently.” – Clean Express Auto Wash employee

“There is never a dull moment. We always have something to do and stay busy with. Most days go by really quick. The staff and upper management are all friendly and create a welcoming atmosphere.” – Clean Express Auto Wash employee

“I can share my fun-loving personality with all generations and ages and am accepted for who I am. The experience I bring, and share is embraced by those I work with.” – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame employee

“I’m obsessed with music and the environment that it creates. Music makes me feel like I’m a part of something and, therefore, being able to interact with visitors about their musical views brings a lot of happiness into my life.” – Rock & Roll Hall of Fame employee

“I enjoy the work that I do and the people that I work with. Everyone has respect for one another and does what it takes to get things done.” Fives North American Combustion employee

“I treat the challenges as adventures and keep on moving.” – Fives North American Combustion employee

“We’re doing something in this world that is purposeful. Providing the best safety clothing for some of the hardest industrial workers in the country/world.” – National Safety Apparel employee

“I have confidence in the leadership/executive team. We make great products that help people get home safely to their families.” – National Safety Apparel employee

“Everyone here is so encouraging and positive. I always feel my questions are answered and I am provided with enough positive reinforcement daily.” – Fleet Response employee

“Making a difference in the lives of children, their families, and teachers matters. In a world full of change and struggle, this is something I can do to be helpful. I cannot solve the problems in Washington or end racism, but I can help the children on my caseload thrive, one child and one moment at a time.” – Beech Brook employee

“I love my job because it allows me to provide the very best for the students we serve. I also value the autonomy to be creative, incorporate fun, and design experiential opportunities that foster critical thinking in our daily work.” – University School employee

“I love to help people. I enjoy being part of an organization that makes a difference in the quality of people’s lives.” GEMCORE employee

“It challenges me to be my best, and I’m always learning something new.” – Nexus Engineering Group employee

“I get to help clients that not every loan officer would take on. I like being able to figure out solutions to difficult lending situations.” – Nations Lending employee

“I know that I am making an impact on the world by the work I am doing with my colleagues and for our students. The world is a better place because of St. Ed’s.” – St. Edward High School employee

“I love my job because it provides me with a sense of purpose. My job is rewarding it challenges me to learn new things and develop new skills.” – Roundstone employee

“Every day brings a new challenge and an opportunity to learn something new. I really appreciate my superiors’ openness to my suggestions and ideas on how we can improve certain things. I feel like my voice is valued.” – Benesch employee

“I am empowered to keep growing with the organization. I am supported by my manager, and she will put my opportunities and growth over the needs of herself and her team if it means I am offered a better pathway.” – Famous Supply employee

Small workplaces

“I have managed a team here at Tendon, and I have had the pleasure of growing the careers of many young adults through Tendon. Tendon is a great place for new welding interns, and many more who want to thrive in the metal fabrication business.” – Tendon Manufacturing, Inc. employee

“It doesn’t feel like a job. I never dread coming into work each day. Every day is different and brings new challenges. I get to work with fun people and for great owners. I have no regrets about my time here at Tendon and hope to one day retire from here.” - Tendon Manufacturing, Inc. employee

“I feel involved within the company. Like I am a part of the business in some way. I feel valued here at Tendon unlike other places I have worked in the past.” – Tendon Manufacturing, Inc. employee

“I’m made to feel part of the team, my opinions matter and everyone is involved in making the company and each other successful.” – Ohio Health Benefits employee

“I get to help people navigate the complexities of health insurance and make a real difference in their lives. I enjoy working on a great team that values collaboration, education and service over traditional sales tactics. Plus, I appreciate the fun, engaging culture at OHB. There is always room for humor, teamwork and meaningful connections with others on the team.” – Ohio Health Benefits employee

“I can assist clients in a value-based manner within an environment that supports the best interests of not only the clients but the employees as well. Supervision is always looking for ways to improve work quality as well as a balance between efficiency and fun within the workplace.” – Ohio Health Benefits employee

“I am constantly challenged and learning new things, my coworkers and the leadership team are genuinely good people, and MAGNET makes a huge impact on the local economy by helping manufacturers grow.” MAGNET employee

“It allows me to have a great work-life balance, yet challenges me every day. I use all of my experiences in this role and continue to learn and grow professionally.” – MAGNET employee

“I am able to do multiple tasks without intervention. I love being on the decision making processes regarding Tenant involvement, workspace assignments and collaborating with partners and community sponsors and guest relations.” – MAGNET employee

“I am respected and my opinion is valued. I feel like a member of a team not just a gear to make the machine work.” – Exit Planning Institute employee

“It’s a great mom job. I like being in the office two days a week to get to work with my coworkers but also being remote three days a week to be the best mom I can.” – Exit Planning Institute employee

“I feel valued and empowered daily and am surrounded by others who share the same values.” – Exit Planning Institute employee

“I feel I am making a difference in people’s lives. I try to exude enthusiasm and a love of life toward my clients and lift their spirits especially while they are going through a health issue. I strive to add life and enjoyment in their lives.” – Amada Senior Care Cleveland employee

“I love working with seniors and their families. I also appreciate that there is great work-life balance and a sense of team! The owner makes the team feel very appreciated.” – Amada Senior Care Cleveland employee

“I love helping people and with Amada. I can help multiple people in many ways. Sometimes it’s with things that they can’t do due to physical and/or health limitations, and sometimes it’s being someone they can talk to or giving them a shoulder to cry on, reminding them that they have people that love them. I am grateful for the opportunity Amada gives me to be a blessing to people that are also a blessing to me. I learn a lot from my clients, and I am grateful for everything that Amada has made possible for me.” – Amada Senior Care Cleveland employee

“I’m doing what I love, driving and interacting with people. I love walking away at the end of the day, knowing that I have made the day better for every person I met. Or at least I’ve tried to. Whether that is through them getting the wine they’ve been waiting for or through our personal interaction. I love building strong relationships with our customers every day.” – Vintage Wine Distributor, Inc. employee

“I love the folks that I work with. I have the best Supervisor that I could ever ask for. I have amazing people who care about their job, they don’t just want a sale, they care for people. I appreciate that. I’ve never been in a role that I just love so much - to the point that my family and friends are exhausted with hearing about it.” – Advance Partners employee

“I love this community and our amazing students. I love being a part of an academically rigorous community that is also focused on faith and the individual. Our students are engaged, supported, and empowered in their learning. This is the best school I have worked for by far.” -Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School employee

“I can do what I came here to do. There isn’t really red tape, just appropriate levels of checks and balances fueled by meaningful discussion and debate.” – Binary Defense employee

“I work with the best people, and I’m rewarded for all my hard work. I have met some of the most hard-working people at this job, but they also have a work-life balance, which is important to have, and FW encourages that. We are constantly rewarded with fun events and food, which is always a plus! The work I do is impactful and aligns with my values and can make staying at a firm much more rewarding, especially in a supportive environment.” – Frantz Ward LLP employee

“I get to do the work I love daily. I find it challenging, and I feel that I make a difference. I have a great work group, and they are dedicated to quality work. My manager gives me the latitude to make decisions and lead my team.” – The Center for Health Affairs & CHAMPS Healthcare employee

“I feel encouraged and empowered to grow in my career, everyone feels approachable for any questions or issues that arise. The remote work environment promotes great work-life balance.” – HW & Co. employee

“We are working for a really exciting startup with fantastic leadership and vision.” – CHAMPtitles employee

“I enjoy interacting with stakeholders. I am given the opportunity to bring new and fun ideas to my position. I have an incredibly supportive team. Lastly, I am proud to support a mission I believe in.” – Western Reserve Land Conservancy employee

“I am motivated to go to work every day and continue to feel appreciated.” - Jackson Comfort Systems, Inc. employee

“I have used my strengths to develop at KHM Travel Group where I am helping meet company goals and serving our customers-supplier and travel advisors. Having a hand in another person’s career is exciting.” – KHM Travel Group employee

“Helping others into recovery, helps me help myself. Thrive is an upbeat positive work environment where everyone cares and wants to help. If someone doesn’t know the answer, they will find an answer. Working at Thrive is not just another job, but a career.” – Thrive Peer Recovery Services employee

“I am treated like a real person, meaning the company is flexible when personal time is needed. They encourage everyone to do their best and make sure they are in the ‘right chair’ (position). We have many events including family events that help everyone grow in the same direction. We are informed often on the direction of the company and encouraged to participate in the direction of the company’s growth.” – John G. Johnson Construction employee

“I meet new people every day, and I get to help our guests get their personal independence back. Also, I get treated like a person and not like a number.” – JDBNOW employee

“There is something new every day. A new challenge, a new party, a new member... it’s ever-changing. I’ve been with Columbia Hills since 2013, and I’ve seen a lot of changes. Every change has been implemented for the better and the overall well-being of the club and staff. The number of great people I’ve met that have come and gone through Columbia Hills — I couldn’t be more grateful. Columbia Hills has provided me with support for so many years.” – Columbia Hills Country Club employee

“We are bringing revolutionary therapies to people in need of them, and we are doing it the right way: putting the patient first and working together as a team across the organization to make these therapies a reality.” – Abeona Therapeutics employee

“My team is very talented, and we learn from each other every day. I love the flexibility and environment I work in.” – Trinity Pension Consultants employee

“I’m able to blend creativity and data, work with great teammates, and create a meaningful impact on the business that I’m able to visualize every day.” – Premier Home Pros employee

“We are making a difference in the lives of young girls, who will grow up to be the leaders of tomorrow.” - Girl Scouts of Northeast Ohio employee

“I feel appreciated at my job, by my co-workers and patients. I love the consistency, the pay is great for what I do, and the benefits are fantastic. I’m learning everyday here and growing as an individual.” - Precision Orthopaedic Specialties employee

“The people and culture are awesome. I feel appreciated and needed, and what we do for kids and our community align with my core beliefs. Especially in this USA as we know it now, ODA is even more valuable.” - Open Doors Academy employee

“From my first day on the team I have felt valued, included and appreciated. W3 takes an interest in their employees and shows employees how important they are to the team.” - W3 Financial Group employee

“It is more than a job; it is a lifestyle. The culture is great, and the owners are amazing to work with and for. The sky is the limit.” - Driven 4 Group employee

“I have the flexibility to do what needs to be done along with the confidence of the company in knowing that I will do the right thing.” - Hondros College employee

“I am making an impact on the company’s future and my work is appreciated.” - Advanced Polymer Coatings employee

“At REA, I am able to contribute to their success on a daily basis. I do not feel that I need to go through layers of management to express my ideas and concerns. My hard work and dedication are rewarded and recognized.” - Rea Elektronik employee

“It gives me purpose, and I get to work with a great rehab team every day that I am here! I do not HAVE to go to work, going to work is a PRIVILEGE.” - Total Education Solutions employee

For the 2025 Top Workplaces list, cleveland.com and the Plain Dealer compiled more than 188 stand-out Northeast Ohio employers based on employee surveys. Find the full list and stories on the top three winners in each of four categories at cleveland.com/top-workplaces.

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