The Sherwin-Williams Co.

Why you want to work there

Even in a tough economy, there's room for growth and advancement at this Cleveland-based paint manufacturer: 15% of the company's employees received promotions last year. Sherwin-Williams emphasizes training opportunities and teamwork, and last year all corporate IT leaders attended a communications course called Crucial Conversations. In one major IT initiative, three divisions worked together to standardize the entire company on the Lotus Notes e-mail platform. The company's Professional Apprentice Co-op Program gives 40 students a chance to work side by side with full-time employees. The company's corporate office has a fitness center, and many IT employees modify their schedules to accommodate daily workouts. The IT department has a dedicated engagement professional who ensures that employees optimize their career opportunities. The specialist conducts satisfaction surveys at least once a year, actively seeks feedback from staff, reviews and updates employees' planned career paths, offers career coaching services and suggests technical training opportunities. New to IT: In 2009, the IT department hosted informational town hall meetings quarterly and gathered feedback after each meeting with an online survey. This feedback was used to shape the agendas of subsequent meetings. Staffers were encouraged to attend the meetings and actively participate in the discussions. Every year, IT managers meet to discuss the organization and examine succession plans. High performers and employees who are deemed to have high potential are slated for the fast track.