Hamilton Jewelers University, an annual team-building event that took place in early August, is an example of how the Princeton, N.J.–based jewelry business fosters a strong company culture and an emphasis on customer service.
CEO Hank Siegel describes Hamilton Jewelers University (HJU) as a welcome to the family—the jewelry chain gathered its newest hires at the Nassau Club in Princeton for three days of training and collaboration.
The program, which Hamilton Jewelers started in the late 1990s, is taught by the company’s owners, executive leadership team, and other staff members. This year, 15 different employees led sessions around teamwork, collaboration, and jewelry knowledge.
“Through HJU, our associates acquire the necessary skills to perform their jobs effectively when they join,” says Siegel. “This not only helps them stay relevant but also empowers them to take on new challenges that enhance the client experience.”
In its early years HJU centered on sales and store operations as well as Hamilton’s mission and values. It has evolved to include product seminars, diamond and colored gemstone sessions, and luxury lifestyle training modules.
Two well-received modules were added in 2024: one on “The Power of Positive Intent,” which was developed by Hamilton’s HR manager, and one created by Hamilton’s client experience specialists that highlighted arts and culture events around the world.
“During our time together, our associates gain a fresh perspective, a sense of passion, and share our purpose of amplifying the Hamilton brand,” Siegel says. “HJU is a time for interaction and learning about our company’s history and how it influences our present and future.”
The three days always fly by with great conversation and lots of time to learn about what Hamilton stands for as a company, he says.
“HJU offers a unique Hamilton experience, going beyond typical training courses by providing firsthand access to ‘the Hamilton way’ and delving into our mission, vision, and core values,” Siegel explains. “At the conclusion of HJU, our associates leave with the confidence to embody these values and share them with others in their day-to-day work.”
Hamilton plans to continue offering HJU in the foreseeable future, Siegel says, as it truly improves employee satisfaction, growth, and retention. Plus, he says, it’s just plain old fun for everyone involved.
“We recognized that attendee feedback was a key ingredient to improving the program each year, so the post-program survey became an important metric for us as well,” the CEO says. “This opportunity is highly appreciated by associates and motivates them to achieve professional growth.”
Top: Participants in the Hamilton Jewelers University annual training and team-building program stand in front of the Nassau Club in Princeton, N.J., hometown of the jewelry chain. (Photos courtesy of Hamilton Jewelers)
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