At Wipfli, there’s no doubt that the advisory firm’s focus on ‘outcomes over hours’ is working. Just look at the data.
“We know this approach is making a difference because we continue to see strong business performance, seamless client service and high levels of associate engagement, including an 82 percent firmwide engagement score in our most recent survey,” Geoff Gibson, benefits manager, said.
This approach empowers Wipfli’s associates to manage their schedules while proactively planning time away, coordinating coverage with their teams and meeting client commitments, Gibson said.
Wipfli’s approach to flexibility is backed by research, too. A Stanford study found that employees who have a flexible schedule are just as productive as in-office employees, and Forbes reported that the vast majority of people want to have either flexible hours or location as part of their job requirement.
“Flexibility succeeds when it’s built on trust, communication and accountability,” Gibson said.
We spoke with Gibson about how Wipfli supports employee wellbeing through flexible work, supportive leaders, and its perks and benefits.
Wipfli is an advisory firm that delivers holistic solutions to help clients navigate the modern marketplace, optimize performance and drive growth.
Your principle for keeping a sustainable work pace — in one line — and what signal proves it works for the business?
We focus on outcomes rather than hours.
This philosophy gives associates the flexibility to manage their schedules while staying accountable to clients, their teams and business results. We know this approach is making a difference because we continue to see strong business performance, seamless client service and high levels of associate engagement, including an 82 percent firmwide engagement score in our most recent survey.
Which policy or norm makes flexible work succeed — and how do you measure its impact?
Flexibility succeeds when it’s built on trust, communication and accountability. Our associates are empowered to manage their schedules while proactively planning time away, coordinating coverage with their teams and meeting client commitments. For associates with ongoing flexibility needs, alternative work arrangements provide additional support and structure. In our FY24 engagement analysis, work-life balance was one of the most frequently cited strengths, with associates specifically highlighting remote work options, flexible schedules, flexible time off and well-being days as meaningful contributors to their overall experience.
Which wellness resource do people actually use — and what improvement have you seen in your people?
The wellness resources that resonate most are those that provide practical support people can incorporate into their everyday lives. Associates regularly take advantage of programs focused on fitness, nutrition, mental health and caregiving support through our well-being platform, Personify Health. Firmwide walking challenges consistently attract hundreds of participants, while programs such as Wellbeats, Foodsmart and ReThinkCare remain among our most utilized resources. These offerings help associates prioritize their well-being in ways that fit their individual needs, contributing to a healthier, more engaged workforce.
