• Article
November 24, 2025

What Corporate America Can Learn From the Work Ethic of a U.S. Navy Sailor

By Leslie Shaw, Executive Vice President, Talent Solutions Linkedin
What Corporate America Can Learn From the Work Ethic of a U.S. Navy Sailor
Table of Contents

Top talent is seeking more than just a competitive paycheck. They’re drawn to the unique appeal of an organization’s culture, growth opportunities, and benefits. That’s where your Employer Value Proposition (EVP) comes in: it clearly defines what sets your workplace apart, not just as a list of perks, but as the authentic combination of qualities that attract talented people, inspire them to thrive, and keep them engaged.

Five Key Drivers That Power a Strong EVP

Attract, Inspire, Retain: Lead With a Culture That Delivers

As a decision-maker, you set the tone for your team. Build a culture where people connect, collaborate, and grow. When an EVP highlights creativity and authentic opportunities for input, it creates an appeal that makes employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to grow with your company.

Inspire Bold Thinkers: Put Innovation at the Center of Your EVP

Top performers want more than routine - they want to help build what’s next. Make innovation central to your EVP by showing how your team uses technology, celebrates achievements, and pursues bold goals. This attracts and energizes employees who are eager to make a real impact.

Lead With Purpose and Watch Your Reputation Soar

Employees want to work for companies that make a positive impact. By weaving your corporate social responsibility (CSR) into your EVP you build an attraction that draws in top talent seeking purposeful impact. Demonstrating a commitment beyond profit builds trust and makes the workplace a destination for those who want their work to matter.

Unlock Ambition, Make Career Development Your EVP Advantage

High performers want opportunities to grow, and they look to leadership to support that ambition. Make career development central to your EVP by providing mentorship, learning opportunities, and clear paths to advancement. This commitment attracts and keeps ambitious talent ready to drive your company forward.

Turn Employee Feedback Into Your Recruiting Superpower

Find out what makes your company unique. Talk to employees. Conduct surveys and focus groups with current employees to understand what they love about working for your company. Identify what’s drawing in top talent, then leverage that feedback to continue to build a high-performing workforce.

Win Top Talent: Craft an EVP That Radiates Inspiration

Begin with these approaches to strengthen your employer branding efforts:

  • Craft Compelling Job Descriptions: Go beyond listing qualifications and responsibilities. Highlight what makes your company unique and why candidates should be excited to join.
  • Create Engaging Content: Use blogs, videos and social media to highlight your company culture, achievements, and employee testimonials.
  • Facilitate a Positive Candidate Experience: Ensure that every interaction a candidate has with your company, from application to interview, reflects your EVP.

Ready to Grow? Let’s Elevate Your EVP

A strong, intentional EVP that highlights your company’s unique qualities creates a compelling story that draws top talent. Make it visible, live it every day, and use it to retain the people who drive your business forward.

Contact CBIZ today to see how we can help put your EVP to work and fuel your growth with the right team.

Connect With Us

Are you a bed & breakfast, inn, or boutique hotel owner interested in CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance? Request a personalized quote or complete this form, and a CBIZ representative will reach out to assist you.