We are a remote team, spread across England and Europe, and we like each other. So, our annual September Social is a highlight in our calendar. We close the office and gather together – no business, just good company and friendly competition.
Our Social Committee once again nailed the agenda this year, which included: A quiz (always a quiz) – pronouncing the names of Northern towns, Taylor Swift, Shakespeare, Disney costumes, and a timeline of British history, followed by a Treasure Trail race through a sunny Stratford-upon-Avon, a pint (always a pint) and a pub, lunch, laughter (much) and Taco Cat.
This isn’t an obligatory, company team building day. It is a genuine, so-glad-to-spend-time with-you Fun day – laced with warmth. “One of the best days ever,” proclaimed one colleague on the Team WhatsApp chat, followed by heart emojis in agreement.
One colleague flew in from Greece, another flew off for a year in Spain (beaming) and we we had a special guest appearance from maternity leave.
None of this would be possible without a stellar Social Committee, masterly led by Sarah Gilhooly, who can actually herd cats. Along with John, Holly and Jess, they put in the work so the rest of us just show up when and where they tell us and enjoy.
At the end of the day, we head home realising how fortunate we are to work with such great colleagues. Every single one of them.
The Christmas Social is already marked in the calendar.