Simplifying is not a new concept — 1,500 years ago, for instance, Confucius observed, “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”
Confucius didn’t play a role in coming up with the key element driving employee relations at Edwards Business Systems, but — as explained by company chair James Edwards — that element runs parallel with the ancient Chinese philosopher’s quote.
When asked what it is that creates a content and productive workforce, he said, “We treat everyone the way I would want to be treated."
Expanding on that simple, 11-word phrase, Edwards said, “We deliver on our commitments, and we put our clients first. The only way we can do the best for our clients is to do the best for our employees. That is how we stay committed."
And that is also how Edwards Business Systems found itself among the Lehigh Valley’s Top Workplaces in 2022.
The 67-year-old family-owned company sells and services high-tech office equipment throughout eastern Pennsylvania, including the Lehigh Valley. It also operates in central Virginia, as Virginia Business Systems. Between both companies, it has 139 employees.
The Edwards policy, created by founders Joseph and Alberta Edwards and their son, James, is not a hollow phrase. However simple, it has created an environment that employees said brings a sense of knowing they are a valued part of a company that also cares about them.
Edwards’ Human Resources Manager Kelly Thompson said the company is large enough to offer generous benefits and perks.....read more here