Glass Inc. - Reflections 1999-2019

11 The Glass Inc. Family &Future “The next generation, whether they are family or not, needs to be better than the generation that’s running the company right now.” Bill Yates, Jr., Chairman, The Yates Companies W hen Robert Smith looks at a prospective employee, he primarily looks for work ethic. “I hire people who have zero experience in the glass industry, but they are good people; they have a good work ethic.” Smith looks to surround himself with self-motivated individuals who will work hard not just because they want to get paid more, but also because they care. “I’ve always looked for that type person, and there’s no secret place to find them; you just have to keep your eyes out for them, and you’ll run into people in different walks of life and think, ‘that person would be really good.’” Creating a Good Environment “I want Glass, Inc. to be a place where employees want to get up and go to work,” Smith said. “If you don’t feel that way, you’re probably not going to be here long.” Open-Door Policy Smith has an open-door policy. “My door stays open 99% of the time. Anybody in this company, from the person in the highest position to the most recent hire, can walk in my office and talk to me. Communication with people makes them feel part of the team.” 137