Impact feels the benefit of quirky HRM : Work hard and play hard ethic blurs distinction between working and social life

Purpose – This paper forms the second of two articles examining how the unusual organizational culture contributes to business success at business‐transformation and people‐development company Impact. Design/methodology/approach – The paper focuses on the company's internal communications, recognition schemes, training and development, and flexible employment practices. Findings – The findings emphasize the importance of teamwork, openness, honesty, trust, flexibility and commitment. Practical implications – The paper highlights the significant benefits that can accrue when managers stay close to their people, understand the challenges they have, and seek to ensure that their life is good. Originality/value – The paper describes a number of quirky practices – such as staff having a chat for the first 15 minutes of the day before logging on to their computers – which have helped to build a loyal and creative workforce.