Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Atlanta Christmas Party & Charity Events!


Christmas and giving go hand-in-hand, so it only makes sense that our Christmas party would involve some charity donations. Our Christmas party in downtown Atlanta was a night of dancing, fun, and socializing! The party was at The Gold Room, and the club was rented out specifically for us. Everyone had to bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots to enter the building, and there were Marines there to collect all of the toys.


We had another charity event the next day for the Operation Smile charity. This is a charity that we have been providing on-going support for. There were different contests and competitions for everyone to participate in, such as foosball, shuffleboard and raffles, and all of the donations went to the charity. The party and charity events in Atlanta helped us end the year on a positive and energetic note and we are looking forward to starting the New Year with the same mentality!

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

5 Ways to Create a Positive Work Environment

A positive work environment is not only important for our physical, mental and emotional health, but is also important for the results that we produce for the company. The better we feel at work, the more likely we will take pride in our job activities and be loyal towards our place of employment.

So let’s look at some ways to create a positive working environment.

1. Accept the right position
The first step to creating a positive work environment is to secure a position that positively suits you. Before you accept a position, you should know what type of work you want to do, what kind of role you would like, where you see yourself in five years, and what kind of environment you thrive in.

2. Be a positive person
Present an attitude of positivity and approachability. Show coworkers that you are available and willing to help them. Walk around with a smile, and make eye contact with those you pass in the hallways. Be fun to work with. Listen to others with interest; and finally, don’t complain, whine or gossip.

3. Take responsibility
Take responsibility for the direction of your career. Ultimately you are responsible for creating an environment in which you can learn and grow.

4. Communicate with your manager
Meet with your manager regularly to ensure you are on track for meeting his or her expectations, and your performance goals. Don’t always wait for your manager to reach out to you. Informing your manager about the status of the activities you are performing shows that you are credible, trustworthy, interested in the business, and committed to your job.

5. Be social
Interact with your colleagues in a non-working way. Join a company team or group. Celebrate birthdays, and other special events. Cultivate working friendships. Organize a competitive sporting event. There are so many things that you can do to connect with others while at work.

So, if you are wondering what a positive work environment looks like, here are some signs.

• You are doing a job that you enjoy
• Your ideas are valued
• Your creativity is encouraged
• You feel appreciated
• The job matches your skill set
• You have work friends that you can talk to
• Your manager is approachable
• There is room for you to grow
• You are recognized when you do good work
• You feel like a part of a team
• You look forward to coming to work
• You are respected
• You are happy while at work
• Work is fun

From Lisa H. of Getting to Zen

Check out pictures from our company softball team, Thanksgiving potluck, office nights, and more on our Facebook!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Gingerbread House Competition!

For most people, making a gingerbread house is a relaxing and fun holiday tradition. Our gingerbread house competition last night was definitely fun, but it was not relaxing!

We were split in teams of two or three for a one hour competition to see who could build the best and most creative house.

Check out some of the best ones!



















It was a special office night last night because we got to spend some time with people from the St. Louis office. Their manager and top sales representatives were visiting our office this week so we got to learn from them too!