Magnetic Cultures Event Delivers Valuable Advice On Building A Better Workplace

CHICAGO, April 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce hosted a panel discussion for an audience of 120 people at the Mid America Club about the importance of creating a thriving work environment as a means to encourage employee engagement and safe, productive behavior.

In his keynote address, Kevin Sheridan, an expert in human capital management and employee engagement, discussed the factors that motivate employees to exert extra effort in their jobs and gave tips about how to manage a dynamic workforce. "A magnetic culture is one that draws talented employees to the workplace, empowers them and sustains an environment in which they are less likely to leave," said Sheridan, author of the New York Times best-selling novel, "Building a Magnetic Culture."

Vivian Smith Del-Toro, Vice President of Operations at Sodexo and Chair of the Chamber's Workplace Well-Being Committee, introduced the panelists, including: Brandi K. Landreth of Allstate; Kevin Cassidy of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois; Derreck J. Robinson of Deloitte; John C. Robak of Greeley-Hansen; and Dr. Rachel Permuth of Sodexo. Exhibitors included: Advocate Health Care & Addiction Treatment Program, CHC Wellness, Cigna Behavioral Health, Employee Resource Systems, Gateway Foundation, Hazelden Foundation, Perspectives Ltd, Presence Behavioral Health – Addiction Services, SafeScreener, Sodexo and Strategic Safety Solutions.

The audience learned about key drivers of employee engagement, including recognition, career development and corporate social responsibility. "Hold onto top performers—keep recruiting the same types of people. Give them room to grow and don't be intimidated by their growth," advised Sheridan.

About the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
The primary role of the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is to make Chicagoland the most business-friendly region in America by enhancing our members' success through advocacy, member benefits and services, and actionable information. Serving as "The Voice of Business" since 1904, the Chambers leads public policy and business growth initiatives and creates meaningful events and programs to inform, engage and connect our members to each other and the community.

This event was produced by the Chicagoland Chamber's Workplace Well-Being Committee, in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Human Services Substance Abuse Prevention Programs.

Contact: Andree Dolan, Vice President of Communications & Programs Chicagoland
Chamber of Commerce
(312) 494-6779 – [email protected]

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140428/81329

SOURCE Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce