PEER 1 takes its employees just as they are : Web firm encourages staff to bring their whole identity to the workplace

Purpose – This paper aims to describe the human resource management practices at PEER 1 Hosting, which offers its clients data centers, network pipelines, hosting configurations and specialized internet services. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents an interview with the company's chief people and performance officer, which covers the firm's recruitment, training, recognition, reward, empowerment and communication policies. Findings – The paper highlights the company's focus on its people – who are they are and not simply what they do. Practical implications – The paper recognizes that creating a human experience for its people in turn allows them to create a human experience for customers, which ultimately translates in to sales, revenue, growth and a greater opportunity for the firm to help its customers to focus on the possibilities of the internet. Social implications – The paper reveals that the company is committed to fostering people and growth, at work and beyond, recognizing that engagement and excitement outside of work will translate into job performance. Originality/value – The paper describes the experiences of a company that takes its people 100 percent as they are – from how they dress to where they want to go personally and professionally. It explains how the company is dedicated to protecting a person's whole identity and encourages him or her to bring that to work.