By: Ian Barr 

I recently presented to a group of people who were interested in learning about agency life and potentially working for H&K Toronto, something that I love discussing. I’ve been speaking at these information sessions once a month for a few years now, and I never get tired of engaging conversations about H&K's culture. Here are just a few things I've come to appreciate over the 7+ years I've worked here:

The people: We're like a giant family that values each others' opinion and challenges each other to grow. Junior staff have open door access to the most senior execs in the organization, and their insights are highly respected. Not a day goes by when you don't learn something new – we  have access to the brightest minds in the business on everything from Technology and Marketing Communications to Crisis, Digital and even Aboriginal affairs. Our international colleagues are just a call or email away.

Best teams: We have a philosophy that the best people for the job get to work on projects regardless of the specialty group you work in. Our ability to expand outside of our core expertise for additional insights brings our clients the best thinking in the industry and also exposes you to new growth opportunities.

Educational opportunities: There’s an abundance of learning opportunities within our office. Language classe, conferences, personal development plans, lunch and learns from peers, external speakers and others within the global network. A few years ago the company sent me to our London, UK office on a two-week educational trip. It was one of the best growth opportunities I've experienced.

You're treated like an adult: If you have a medical appointment in the afternoon, you can leave the office and take it without sacrificing vacation time. If you have time in your schedule and want to go to the gym, you’re free to do so. Imagine that – people who understand! When you’re treated like an adult, there’s a certain sense of responsibility to your colleagues and employer. People value the flexibility and work hard to preserve it by not taking advantage of the generosity.This leads me to my next point...

Unlimited sick days: If you’re sick, you stay home. If you’re sick for a week, you stay home for a week. If it sounds like an oversell, you’d be amazed at how many companies make you use personal vacation once you've reached your max number of sick days. Some even make you use vacation for bereavement. Despite this policy, people take an average of 3 days sick leave per year here. Why? Because we're happy and have found a good work/life balance.

Beer cart: Our beer cart has been featured in many media outlets, including the Globe and Mail. Friday beer cart is a tradition here.

It's with great pride that I tell people we've been named one of the top 100 employers in Canada and were the first agency to be added to such a prestigious honor. Our senior leaders have worked hard to create a collaborative and rewarding environment, and it's obviously paying off.