Southwest says its caring philosophy reflects the life and leadership of Colleen Barrett, whom it describes as the original architect of Southwest's culture.

Colleen Barrett as Architect of Southwest's Culture

Southwest says employees are treated with concern, respect, and care inside the organization in the same spirit they are expected to show externally to customers.

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Southwest states that People are the heartbeat of the airline, that its focus includes employees, customers, communities, and relevant societal topics, and that it is known for Hospitality and a legendary Culture where People come first.

People-First Culture at Southwest

Southwest Airlines public pages describing company purpose, vision, employee promise, values, people, leadership, culture, and customer commitments. URLs used: https://www.southwest.com/about-southwest/index.html and https://www.southwest.com/citizenship/people/

Southwest Airlines: Culture and Values

Southwest states that every employee is responsible for nurturing its culture of caring, regardless of tenure or position. It also says employees are encouraged to bring their unique perspectives, skills, and experiences into their daily work.

Employee Responsibility for Nurturing Southwest's Culture

Southwest says it empowers employees to create careers that fit their goals and lifestyle. It also states that quality training and development support progress, change, retention, and employee success.

Career Fit and Development in Southwest's People Practices

Southwest says it supports employee wellbeing through compensation, benefits, and programs targeting physical, mental, and financial health. It states that an effective total rewards package is essential for attracting and retaining people who can deliver Southwest's brand promise to customers.

Total Rewards as Retention Support at Southwest

As of December 31, 2023, Southwest reported that labor unions represented about 83% of its workforce. The company says its collective bargaining approach aims for positive outcomes for both employees and Southwest while fostering honesty, civility, and understanding.

Southwest's Collective Bargaining Approach

Southwest Airlines describes its people as representing diversity of culture, background, experiences, and perspectives, and says each employee brings talent, creativity, and individuality. It states that fostering inclusion and belonging contributes to a culture where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and valued.

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