Wertz & Company participated in the Orange County Business Journal's inaugural "2009 Best Places to Work" program where we placed first among all participating CPA firms. As part of the program, our employees participated in an anonymous survey which revealed employee attitudes within our organization. The following is just a sampling of some of their comments when asked, "What does this organization do that makes it a place where people want to work?

• "The firm empowers its employees to be who they are and service clients at the highest level."
  

• "They provide a great work environment, are sensitive to balancing work and personal time, and are always ready to provide assistance or education to help you learn new skills. They stress that we are all part of a team striving to reach the goal and no one has to go it alone."
  

• "There is open communication within all levels of the organization."
  

• "The company strives for a friendly, team-oriented atmosphere and provides a caring and supportive attitude to all employees."

• "We are not micro-managed and that freedom makes us more responsible and productive."

• "The leadership truly believes in its people and leads by example. It is a place where I want to work hard because I feel respected, trusted and secure."

• "I have never had the feeling of being "just a number." I feel the camaraderie in the office between all levels of employees which creates an energetic work environment where one can easily create and share new ideas."

• "This company treats you like you are part of the family and they genuinely care about your personal goals and success. If you work hard for the company, they work hard for you."

• "The partners and management have an open door policy and all staff are welcome to come with questions or just to talk."

• "The firm encourages the utmost care for its clientele, person to person communications, friendly staff with good ethics and professionalism, and fantastic holiday events."

And here are some other comments from our employees from an internal survey we conducted when asked, "Why do you stay with the firm?"

• "I am treated fairly and with respect; my opinion seems to matter."

• "There is great opportunity for growth and development."

• "I respect and appreciate the management."

• "There is a good balance between personal and professional life."

• "The firm offers both clients and staff the ultimate support available."

• "I believe that this firm is committed to the development and realization of my professional career goals and objectives."

• "Good working environment, challenging work and clients whom I enjoy working with."

• "Working here makes me feel like I am part of something important."

• "Opportunities to grow in new areas to expand my expertise."

Here is what a few of our clients had to say about our relationship with them:

• "A quick note to tell you you our time was well spent. In the old days, a stick was used to prod the camel forward. In today's world, it apparently is hand-holding by one's accountant!"

• "I know we were a little too inquisitive and were somewhat nervous as this was our first endeavor in buying a new business, but your work and efforts were impressive as well as comforting."

• "What a tremendous relief to know we have you to guide and help us in the upcoming “chapters” of our lives.  You have been mentors, friends and a great source of giggles and laughter.  You have been wonderful additions to our lives!"

• "Not only did you treat me with great dignity and respect, you have me invaluable advice that has helped me create a strategy that gives me new hope."

• "Please allow me to express my appreciation for another successful year of working with your firm.  As always, your staff always demonstrates a very professional and organized approach throughout the planning, communication and execution phases when forecasting and tax planning during our meetings.  It is so nice to have an open channel to get my sometimes good and often silly questions answered, as I try to keep a handle on my business."

• "Thank you for such an informative meeting.  You were most helpful  with all of your suggestions that I will be putting to use."

• "You continue to amaze me with your incredible approach!  Your offer to be an independent “ear” is greatly appreciated.  I know we have both learned that sometimes the simple act of vocalization leads one to conclusions that seem impossible to achieve when one tries to work through problems alone.  My life, and the lives of your clients, is richer because of you.  I am proud to have you on my team as a valued advisor."