I turned up. I listened. I learned about our new vision. I bought into the new values. I was in awe of the magician. And for the most part, I actually enjoyed myself.
But do I feel that anything’s going to change?
Feedback from those of us who attended was mixed but it’s fair to say most people enjoyed themselves. I witnessed camaraderie as well as new relationships being formed - and much frivolity. It was a relief to be honest as I wasn’t too sure what to expect. And I felt unusually comfortable in the presence of like-minded people who weren’t too sure what the day would entail or if they’d want to stay for the duration.
Looking back, I guess the purpose of such events is to bring people together and help us to understand more or understand better. Many of us have little spare time in our working day to get to know our colleagues better so my communication day was an opportunity to get to know my colleagues, some of whom I’m fairly sure I’ve never even laid eyes on before! And I managed to do this with relative ease. I don’t relish the idea of making small talk with people I barely know however it wasn’t a chore because we all had something in common. We were all in the dark about what to expect, all a little sceptical (or a big bit sceptical in some people’s cases) and all frazzled from working hard. But we needn’t have worried. The day proved to be light relief. Well needed and well deserved, even if I do say so myself.
The name of our group was clearly marked on a large, helium balloon that deflated quite early on in the day (note: not a metaphor), and there was genuine interest and excitement within my group about the activities. Apart from one person who chose to take on the role of shouting orders to us, some of which weren’t particularly helpful.
We all bonded. We wore a hat and large glasses in the photo booth (which reminds me, I want to vet the photos before they’re released as I know there are some shockers in there).
We now say hi to one another when we’re diving towards the one remaining sandwich on the shelf in M&S, Redhill. We ask how the other person is doing with genuine interest. We laugh about that person at the communications day who did nothing but complain only to find out that they’re a newbie who knows relatively little compared to us – experienced, serial moaners who over time have earned the right to complain about everything and anything (this article is definitely anonymous, right?). But the bacon rolls returned and this reduced day-time moaning considerably.
But what about the worky stuff? What about this vision – to deliver what we promise? And standing together whilst also having a pioneering spirit? I am still a little in the dark about what they mean and how they’ll affect TGP UK. I would think after such an emphasis on the importance of launching these elements as a new direction* that there will be more to come. And I for one would welcome this. I can’t imagine how dull it would be to work for a company that doesn’t change. And let’s face it, we need change. We’re desperate for it. And if the vision and the values are the start of the change, then bring it on 
. I can only hope that positive change happens quickly and with minimal negative impact on us - the workers. The ones at the sharp end who, whether we like it or not, choose to turn up every day and give it our best.
(*) After learning about “One Total” the temptation to refer to our vision & values launch as “One Direction” is incredibly strong.
Guest writer – Anon.
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