As networks develop and adapt to constantly changing work practices, the team Russell Bedford It is actively working to develop new strategies and concepts to ensure that members of the network continue to expect the value of membership.
In recent weeks, we have learned that our members really appreciate being in touch with other members, which has led us to organize an online social event.
Friday, 24 April 2020, above 70 representatives of member companies Russell Bedford from around the world met online during our first Virtual Happy Hour.
Members shared some of the challenges they faced by adapting to new standards. They also told their stories related to lockdown. Some invited their families, and others shared advice on how they cope in some difficult circumstances. The overall mood was optimistic and full of hope for the imminent end of the freeze of the economy.
The success of this event confirms the importance of social interaction, an aspect of our global network, which has always been at the forefront of our system of values – cooperation is one from our core business values. And although we all want to go back to a time when we can be together, for now we try to do our best to deal with a difficult situation.
So what we learned from our first Happy Hour?
We learned that making contacts with colleagues, even when it is done using a computer screen, is extremely upbuilding.
Listening to fellow workers really helps to feel less alone in their own challenges and to draw inspiration from how others approach problems.
The blockade has unleashed great creativity in problem solving. Our members must respond quickly to new challenges and do so with surprising ease and success.
Keeping in touch and peer-checking has never been so important; no company wants their employees to fall off the network.
We need to make sure that we communicate effectively and listen to each other. It is important to find joy in small things, with a hard effort to balance the workload with other obligations. Remember the smile, even if it can only be virtual. Let us rely on the people around us when we need them, while at the same time supporting others when they need us.
We adapt to these strange times, but that doesn't necessarily mean we can't develop in them.
Happy Hour concluded the fantastic interpretation of John Lennon's “Imagine” by our “pianist” son one from our Mexican partners – this is an excellent culmination of a very special time of contact with members of Russell Bedford.