This year was the first time Motion made this esteemed list—and in our 19th year, no less. (We’re calling that a late bloomer success story.) We debuted at #26, which is a strong start, and we’re proud of it. But here’s the thing: While it’s an honor to have been included, it’s also not a surprise. At least, not to the people who work here.
Crain’s doesn’t hand out this award for good vibes and stocked fridges. It’s based on an in-depth review of everything from benefits and policies to work environment and leadership—and most importantly, anonymous employee feedback. That means it’s our team’s (our “Motionites’”) own words and experiences that put us on this list. And that’s the real win.
We built the Motion culture the same way we build our campaigns—with intention, grit and a healthy dose of curiosity. We also built it with FORCE, the values that shape how we show up every day:
Forthright
We’re honest, direct and clear—with each other and our clients.
Open-minded
We leave our egos at the door and invite fresh thinking in.
Resilient
We get knocked down, we get back up. Stronger. Smarter.
Challenge-Hungry
We chase the hard problems. The ones worth solving.
Entrepreneurial
We think like owners. Because this place belongs to all of us.
These values aren’t just on our website. They’re in our work. In our meetings. In how we treat each other. (And, yes, they’re literally painted on our wall.)
This recognition matters—not because we need the applause, but because it validates what we’ve always believed: that culture isn’t a line item, a buzzword or a tagline. It’s the engine that powers everything else.
Our feature in the latest Crain’s Chicago issue here reinforces this.
We started at #26, and we’re not done. We’ll keep evolving. We’ll keep listening. And we’ll keep building a place where smart, good humans (and some friendly dogs, too) want to do the best work of their careers—together.
To our team: Thank you. You made this happen.
Now let’s get back to it.
