Aided in part by its array of benefits, the agency emphasizes recruiting and retaining exceptional talent—an internal mantra that has helped in its journey from startup in 2010 to its present incarnation as a publicly traded company with hundreds of employees.
“We ensure a supportive onboarding process, including personalized schedules and regular check-ins for new hires,” said Don Patrick, Fluent’s CEO, who cites his agency’s “entrepreneurial spirit” as one of its most defining characteristics. “Additionally, we offer a mentorship program connecting staff with leaders for development.”
Fluent is continuously seeking out new hires to add to its roster, part of its “always be recruiting” mindset. But it's also had cutbacks. Fluent in early 2023 made layoffs "following management’s determination to reduce headcount and decrease the company's overhead to more effectively align resources to the company's core business operations," according to a regulatory filing.
While Fluent’s leadership stops short of committing to no layoffs in 2024—“macroeconomic, regulatory and industry influences” beyond the firm’s control will ultimately decide that, Patrick said—the company believes its transparency with employees regarding work expectations and focus areas should help put their minds at ease.
The digital agency is based in New York and maintains smaller offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. Fluent has shifted its work environment since the COVID-19 pandemic, going from just 5% of its employees telecommuting prior to 2020 to operating now as a flexible hybrid employer that requires two in-office days per week.
What will set apart Fluent as a Best Place to Work amid the challenges of 2024?
CEO Don Patrick: “We’re committed to acquiring, retaining and developing top talent to fortify our performance-based culture. Our emphasis on the best team and culture translates to wins for consumers and clients. We maintain agility, recognizing and celebrating both small and significant achievements that drive business and cultural progress. We strive for excellence and innovation in every endeavor.”