Frank Flick, president of the FlickReedy Corporation of Bensenville, Illinois, is this year’s recipient of the S.A.M. Human Relations Award. His achievements in the field of human relations are staggering, and he sets an example for any business owner who is interested in developing loyalty and pride in his or her employees.
The Flick-Reedy plant serves as more than a workplace for its 800-plus employees. The plant is complete with an indoor swimming pool, three lagoons, tennis courts, a “target” golf course, sleeping quarters for 50, several kitchens, a day-care center, and more. Employees participate in company recreational activities such as barbecues, talent shows, and square dances-and most of the activities are run by the employees themselves.
It is obvious that Flick believes that he employs an entire person-not just a machine operator or line operator.
In addition to providing recreational facilities for his employees’ physical enjoyment, Flick tends to his employees’ emotional and spiritual needs. Several years ago, in an effort to bridge the gap between blue-collar and white-collar workers, Flick distributed white short-sleeved shirts to all his employees. The shirts serve a dual purpose. Not only do they eliminate any physical distinction between the two groups and make the employees feel better about their neater appearance, but the short sleeves are safer. In an interview with a Chicago newspaper, Flick explained, “We’ve found a man in a white shirt is more careful around machinery than a man in an old blue shirt.”
Flick has proven again and again that he considers human relations a top priority in running his business. When one employee told his supervisor several years ago that his citizenship course at a local high school had been cancelled, Flick initiated a company program for naturalization of employees. A religious man, Flick has included a nondenominational “Chapel of the Worker” in the plant. Catholic services are offered each Tuesday, and of course, attendance is voluntary. Upon receiving the S.A.M. Human Relations Award, Flick will add it to the large collection of honors and awards he has received for his many years of community service and managerial integrity. SAM-NI
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