“Outstanding” accolade for Manning Stainton

4th March 20007

For the second year in succession Leeds and Wakefield estate agents Manning Stainton have figured prominently in the Sunday Times Best 100 Small Companies to Work for Awards.

At a glittering awards ceremony in London last Wednesday, and in the company of the cream of UK businesses, Manning Stainton achieved the distinction of being the highest-ranked Yorkshire Company in the Best 100 Small Companies to Work for category. Finishing in 54th position, they were also the top ranked estate agents in the list.

Said Managing Director Russell Manning: -

“We were extremely proud last year to be ranked 43rd at our first time of entering these prestigious awards. This year, however, with over 350 companies entering our category – over 90 more than 2006 – we are delighted to have maintained our prominent position against fierce competition.”

In early February the company was presented with a Best Companies two-star accreditation in a system where one star rates as first class, two stars outstanding and three stars extraordinary. It was also revealed at the Best Companies ceremony that Manning Stainton’s ratings now place the company “within reach” of the three star accolade.

To date only 256 UK employers have been awarded stars in this elite accreditation standard.

“Even Gordon Ramsay hasn’t yet achieved that, though he’s on record as trying very hard for it,” says Russell Manning, “…and it’s particularly appropriate that people looking to work for the UK’s best companies can use the Top 100 Best Companies listings much as discerning diners use the famed Michelin Guide!”

90% of the ratings points achieved by participating companies come via confidential questionnaires completed by their staff and not seen by directors or managers. Staff are asked to rate the company for whom they work across eight factors including Personal Growth, Well-Being, Leadership, My Team and Community involvement. The remaining 10% is awarded following workplace visits and a detailed company questionnaire.

The Award organisers commented: -

“All of these companies are enlightened places to work, with highly motivated employees and inspirational leaders – creating a virtuous circle of success which inevitably results in better customer service and satisfaction.”