Corporate Culture: Essence Communications, Inc

Folio: The Magazine for Magazine Management, Dec 1, 2001

PORTFOLIO: Essence, books, special events including The Essence Awards, licensed products and mail catalogs.

LOCATION: New York City

WORD ON THE COMPANY: For the most part, a family-like, relaxed environment. But since the new editor, Diane Weathers, came aboard last July, some say there have been "adjustments." Staffers feel they're getting a "mixed message" on the type of reader the magazine is trying to reach. And the process of pinpointing the new direction has been frustrating, says one.

ATMOSPHERE: When it comes to dress, individualistic and "funky casual--there's no such thing here as a blue suit." Overall, offices are loud and those seeking serene, private workstations may not fit in here.

BENEFITS: Competitive medical and dental package, 401(k), profit sharing, management-level bonuses. Vacation starts at two weeks and goes up to five, based on tenure. With recent partnership with AOL Time Warner (Time Inc. owns a 49 percent stake in the company), employees have access to things like the employee assistance and childcare programs.

PERKS: Having inside information on sample sales, movie previews, music-listening parties. Also, traveling, attending concerts and other events.

CHURN: Moderate turnover rate. The 32-year-old company has had little churn at the top (although, as mentioned, a new editor came aboard in July.)

CHALLENGES: Slow at adjusting to change in terms of technology (no company Intranet). Company has trouble retaining young talent. The magazine is facing new competitors on the newsstand. The hours are long and unpredictable--no set schedule from week to week. Doesn't pay as well as big companies.