Google Culture, Business and HR Practices How do Google's corporate values and goals concerning employees, customers, and the business combine to create job satisfaction and motivate the people who work there? Is this a model every business should adopt?

The search engine giant known as Google has experienced a successful few years and risen to become a leader in the search industry. They have enjoyed increased revenue, profits, share prices, market share and the expansion of their global workforce (Savoia & Copeland, 2011). Their business practices are a large part of the equation. They are dedicated to their mission, culture and what they refer to as their most valuable resource -- their employees (Baum, 2007). In addition to being a top-rated choice for internet searches by customers, employees consider them a great place to work.

The company is famous for its commitment to its employees. Diversity is of central importance to Google's hiring practices. The company prides itself of only hiring the best and the brightest. Employees must be intellectuals as evidenced by their skill set, strong work ethic and solid educational background. Experience matters, but is generally not considered as important as ability (Stewart, 2013). Affectionately called Googlers, the workforce of the company are comprised of a diverse mix. Team members share common goals and visions for the company. Googlers come from across the globe. This is intentional according to CEO Larry Page. "Workers must fully understand reflect a global customer base" (Baum, 2007).

There is an emphasis on creating a fun office climate and atmosphere and it is rare not to find on-site bowling alleys, lots of good food, and other perks. Employees have access to a quick game of ping pong or foosball on-site. Hiring practices must be fair and ethical, and employee benefits focus on work-life balance for workers. Benefits include traditional policies and provisions such as top-rated health insurance, retirement benefits, and tuition reimbursement. However, Google goes even further...

Other strategies include on-site physicians and nurses, convenient medical services, on-site fitness facilities, and hair salons (Stewart, 2013). Employees also receive free legal aid, travel insurance, and generous maternity and paternity leaves (including "baby bonuses"). Google is also known for its 20% time program. The company allows its employees to use up to 20% of their work week to pursue special projects totally unrelated to their actual role.
The corporate culture is open, jovial and casual. Employees are invited to share their ideas and opportunities freely. This creates a work culture in which everyone's contributions count. Google has weekly "TGIF" meetings where employees can email or visit with the CEO or other senior executives to discuss company related matters (Savoia & Copeland, 2011). A centralized cafe is typical in most offices and used for teaming and also as a great place to socialize. Management has sought to incorporate creative expression into all offices which includes artistic murals and fun decor. Plenty of whiteboards are present in common spaces -- yet another strategic move on the part of management. This is to encourage spontaneous brainstorming sessions and collaboration.

In terms of customers, Google places an equally high importance on exceeding their expectations and working to build loyalty and repeat business. The company aims for quality user experiences and continually enhances internet browsers, their homepage aesthetics and interface, and tools and applications (Baum, 2007). There is much focus on what customers want the most -- speed in receiving web search results and a wealth of organized, accurate and reliable information. Much of the company's revenue comes from advertising, or paid search. Placement in search results is never sold. Advertisers are subjected to a behind the scenes algorithm that uses not only keyword bid price, but also site content and relevance to determine search results placement, or PageRank. This ensures integrity…