Nominated Business: Signature Dealer Group
Who are the owner(s) and/or principal leadership in this company? William Reilly, Owner William Crowder, General Manager
Where is it located? Benton Harbor
Nominated by: Theresa Clark
How many people work at the company you are nominating? 47
Tell us the story behind the nominated company. What does it do, and what sets them apart from other companies in the region?
This automotive dealership was started in 1989 and has from day one insisted on excellent customer service based on honesty and integrity. Something not often found in a lot of companies.
In your own words, why do you think this company deserves to be declared to be one of the 20 Best Places to Work in Michigan’s Great Southwest?I have worked for this company for over 21 years and the leadership has always treated every employee and customer with the utmost respect while also treating them as family. They go above and beyond to help anyone without thinking twice.
What makes workers proud to say they work there, and keeps them a part of the team?
Every employee is treated as a family member, not an employee. Respect and compassion for all employees keeps them working closely together as a team.
Let’s pretend you’re writing a review for Google or Indeed. Give us your best recommendation for the nominated company that would make the rest of us wish we worked there, too.
This company is truly one of the friendliest and honest business I’ve ever encountered. The importance they put on valuing a customer and treating them not only professionally but also with kindness and respect is top notch.
What three key words best describe why this company is a Best Places to Work caliber company?
Respect
Honesty
Integrity
As a Best Places to Work company “Super Hero,” what are the two most magical “Super Powers” this company seems to have on a day-to-day basis? (i.e., Ability to read minds, fly, invisibility, etc) And why?
As one of the employees we do not consider ourselves a “Super Hero” in any way.
Everything being done on a day-to-day basis is done the same way, by treating the customer with kindness and respect. We don’t consider that a “super power”, just doing the right thing every time, every day.
Tell us about the leadership of the nominated company and what they do in order to:
A] Keep spirits and motivation high? Multiple times throughout the year the leadership caters lunch with either food trucks or has a catering company bring in food for all employees. There are also many monthly opportunities for cash bonuses.
B] Keep innovation and fresh ideas advancing? Discussions throughout the year with employees to keep current practices updated with fresh, creative ideas to keep the company moving forward in a positive direction.
C] Keep communications open? Weekly meetings keep everyone informed of the happenings at the dealership.
Explain a specific “wow!” moment in this company’s history that is virtually “Hall of Fame” or “Best Practices” worthy, as an example to other companies in the region.
This company has received the President’s Award for excellence for multiple years. A feat that is not easily accomplished and is not accomplished by many.
Best Places to Work have a reputation for not only working hard, but also for playing hard.
A] How does the nominated company honor or reward success? Multiple opportunities throughout the year for cash bonuses.
B] How does the nominated company socialize as a team? There are year end parties, baseball games, and just getting together in small groups to hang out on weekends.
C] How does the nominated company get involved in community events? The company supports Lest We Forget, Krasl Art Fair, various community music festivals, Toy’s for Tots, Animal Aid, United Way, many school/non profit support, race track sponsorship, Cornerstone Alliance and Cornerstone Chamber of Commerce, sponsor broadcasting in support of area school athletic programs as well as the American Cancer Society.
D] How does the nominated company celebrate life? Life is celebrated living it one day at a time with the best intentions and positive attitude.
What one thing is special about your nominated company that most people in the community have no idea actually happens there, but should be shouted from the rooftops because it’s that cool?
This company is one of the very few companies that have the owners not only meet and greet their customer’s but also thank them personally for their business. They are also in the dealership from open to close every single day.
Give us three employee perks or benefits that you think make the company you have nominated worthy of a Best Places to Work trophy?
Benefit 1: The ability to go to any manager or leader for assistance with any issue whether it be personal or work related and have the issue taken care of without hesitation.
Benefit 2: Additional PTO days given as well as letting the employee have their birthday off.
Benefit 3: Half of the employee cost of health insurance is covered by the company.
Anything else you’d like to mention about this company, its’ leadership, etc?
I’ve never experienced a company who treats their employees as close family. And it makes a world of difference in the health of the business as well as the happiness of the employees and customers.
