There are hundreds of courses and speakers with opinions about what makes a team perform well. Some will say it’s comprehensive professional development plans that drive success, while others will cite a meaningful connection to the work. But maybe there’s a simpler alternative: Teams that like each other tend to perform better.
Inc shared the experiment where groups of friends were compared to groups of acquaintances and measured on how well they could complete a task. The groups of friends performed more than three times better than the acquaintances. The reason, according to the researchers, was that they could challenge one another in a constructive way. One of the assets of teams that enjoy each other’s company is the ability to provide open feedback and move through experimentation, failure and openly share ideas. In short, connection is the core of a great workplace culture and a successful team.
Built In found three Los Angeles tech companies that have great cultures and teams that are built around connection.
What DISQO does: DISQO is an audience insights platform where members share information that improves human experience.
DISQO’s Professional Development Perks
- Customized development tracks
- Job training and conferences
- Online course subscriptions available
- Paid industry certifications
- Promote-from-within
- Lunch-and-learns
- Continuing education available during work hours
- Personal development training
A culture of connection: The team at DISQO genuinely enjoys time in the office with one another. So much so that we wrote an article about the unique culture at the company. Talent Acquisition Manager Marina Vartanyan told Built In in 2024: “For me, being in the office adds so much value to my workday — it fosters those spontaneous, in-person conversations that often spark new ideas and collaborations… We have a fully stocked kitchen to keep everyone fueled throughout the day and a game room that’s home to some seriously competitive ping-pong matches. I’m particularly fond of these games; we’ve taken things to the next level with spreadsheets to track wins and losses, and there are some pretty intense bets riding on the outcomes! It’s all about having fun, but there’s definitely some bragging rights at stake.”
What Munchkin does: Munchkin is a children’s retail manufacturer that has expanded to include a curated line of home goods inspired by curiosity.
Munchkin’s Culture Perks
- Volunteer in local community
- Flexible work schedule
- Open door policy
- Open office floor plan
- Partners with nonprofits
- Remote work program
- Team based strategic planning
- OKR operational model
- Employee resource groups
- Employee-led culture committees
- Quarterly engagement surveys
- Hybrid work model
- In-person all-hands meetings
- Employee awards
A culture of relatability: Munchkin was named to Fast Company’s Brands That Matter list for the second consecutive year. This recognition highlights “unwavering dedication to parents through innovative products and meaningful storytelling that truly resonates,” according to leaders at Munchkin. The company has a lot to be proud of — from the “The Curve” video series, to “StrollerCoaster: A Parenting Podcast” for parents. The team is turning out content that is helpful and instructive.
What Cie does: Cie is a venture studio that serves as an innovation lab and accelerator for bold entrepreneurs who want to transform disruptive ideas into thriving ventures.
Cie’s Office Perks
- Company-sponsored outings
- Company-sponsored happy hours
- Onsite gym
- Onsite office parking
- Recreational clubs
- Relocation assistance
- Free snacks and drinks
- Some meals provided
A culture of no bad ideas: One of the great things about working at a startup is that small ideas (and big ones) can have a meaningful impact. Cie leaders take pride in sourcing those great ideas from folks all over the company, like HR Business Partner, Pia Mulligan who told Built In in 2024: “It truly is an ‘everyone has a seat at the table’ type of culture. From the executive team to our entry-level employees, everyone is hands-on and crucial to achieving our mission.”
