Kim Strachan: How do you ensure staff feel appreciated all year round?

At Journey Further, we prioritise the wellbeing and satisfaction of our team, ensuring people feel valued and appreciated for their hard work. We believe in creating an environment that embraces our core values of openness, togetherness, and a shared vision of creating a better way to do business. Here is how we actively demonstrate our appreciation and gratitude to our amazing team:

First, recognition programmes: we havee implemented various recognition programmes to celebrate individual and team achievements. From monthly awards within teams to company-wide initiatives, we acknowledge exceptional performance and contributions. Recognising and rewarding hard work boosts morale but also reinforces our commitment to recognising the efforts of our talented people.

Next, transparent communication: we believe in open and transparent communication across all levels of the agency. We hold bi-annual company-wide meetings, accompanied by monthly all-company update calls. One-to-one check-ins provide opportunities for our people to share their thoughts, concerns, and ideas. By fostering an environment of open dialogue, we show our employees that their voices and opinions matter.

Third, professional development: we invest in the growth of team members through training, workshops, and conferences. We encourage employees to pursue personal and professional goals, providing them with resources and support along the way. By investing in their development, we demonstrate our commitment to their long-term success and wellbeing.

And lastly, work-life balance and wellbeing: we understand the importance of work-life balance and encourage employees to prioritise their wellbeing. Flexible work arrangements exist for everyone at all levels of the agency, as does membership to a best-in-class private medical scheme. We offer a range of mental health support services from different local and national providers. From team-building activities and social events to company-wide celebrations such as our ‘Summer Smash’ company trip, we create opportunities for staff to connect and bond outside of work. By creating a positive and inclusive culture, we show our appreciation for the unique contributions each team member brings.

At Journey Further, we understand that valuing our staff and thanking them for their hard work goes beyond words. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and inspired to do their best work.

Kim Strachan is people director at Journey Further