By Tim Haak, Founder, Mile6, A Digital Product Agency
A feature piece from our Summer 2024 issue of the Lancaster Thriving Publication.
At Mile6, a digital product agency, we understand that the best ideas and solutions emerge when our team members feel balanced, valued, and supported. This understanding has led us to champion a culture where remote and hybrid work options are not just available but encouraged. We believe in giving our team the autonomy to choose where they work best, whether that’s from home, in a co-working space, or occasionally in the office for those who thrive on face-to-face collaboration.
This flexibility allows our team to manage their work around their lives, not the other way around. Parents can align their schedules with childcare needs, while others can pursue hobbies or personal projects that enhance their creativity and productivity when they are working. By reducing the need for commutes of any length, we’ve given our team members back valuable hours each day, contributing to their overall well-being and satisfaction. It’s also worth noting that our occasional all-hands activities become events that people are excited to attend and come with a heightened sense of purpose. “One of the many positives that comes from a remote work environment and the culture at Mile6 is that of a much needed work-life balance that yields an enhanced sense of well-being.” – Samantha Bancroft, Digital Product Associate
Cultivating a Thriving Remote Culture
Adopting a remote-first approach has required thoughtful implementation of tools and practices that support communication, collaboration, and community. We leverage state-of-the-art digital tools to keep our team connected and ensure seamless collaboration across projects. Regular virtual check-ins, team meetings, and one-on-one sessions help maintain a sense of connection and alignment with our goals and vision.
We also recognize the importance of building a strong team culture, even from a distance. Virtual team-building activities, skill-sharing sessions, and informal ‘coffee chats’ have become integral to fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging among our team members, regardless of their physical location. “I’ve worked for Mile6 for six years, and the culture has always been positive, understanding, and real. Transitioning to remote work felt very seamless, and the culture has continued to thrive thanks to the efforts of our team members and leadership to all stay connected. Our weekly team meetings always have a fun twist to them!” – Nicole Pressel, Visual Designer
The Impact on Our Growth
The benefits of our remote and hybrid work culture have been clear and impactful. We’ve seen marked improvements in employee productivity and job satisfaction, leading to lower turnover rates and higher talent retention. Our team members report feeling more focused and driven, attributing this to the increased control they have over their work environments and schedules. “Working remotely allows me to have more time with my family since there is no long commute. Also, the culture at Mile6 is one where so long as you’re getting your work done, it’s not a big deal to take time for small life things that come up.” – Jim Rhoades, Senior Web + Mobile Developer
Furthermore, this flexibility has enabled us to tap into a wider talent pool, unhindered by geographical limitations. This access to a diverse range of skills and perspectives has enriched our team and spurred innovation, driving our growth in new and exciting directions, and encouraged regional perspectives that we may not have considered.
Our commitment to a flexible work culture has also enhanced our reputation in the tech industry, attracting top talent who share our values of balance and well-being. This reputation has, in turn, attracted clients who value partnering with a forward-thinking company that prioritizes its team’s health and happiness.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, Mile6 remains committed to refining and expanding our remote and hybrid work practices. We continue to explore new ways to support our team’s well-being and productivity, ensuring that our work culture evolves in tandem with our growth. By placing work-life balance at the core of our operations, we are not just growing a successful company — we are redefining what success looks like in the tech industry.
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