Team work makes the dream work – Maintaining a productive team

At PenniBlack we see our team as core to the success of our business, and a happy, productive team with a great attitude is what creates positive memorable experiences for all our clients, and that is why we ensure they have the best working environment to thrive.

Why is it important?

There is nothing worse than for team members to struggle or make mistakes because they are afraid to ask or have not been shown the correct procedures. We make sure all our team are well trained and briefed before they attend any events, and that they have a friendly manager on site who they can talk to if they have any concerns or doubts. We do all we can to keep our team motivated and respected at all times so that when they arrive on site they are genuinely excited to be there and look forward to working together, with contagious enthusiasm and positivity.

PenniBlack team lined up for service.
PenniBlack team having fun at a USA themed event.

Understanding strengths, to work as a team

One of the things we love is understanding the unique strengths of the team, for example some people may be incredibly creative and have that designers eye when styling an event, and we always take in the time to listen to their inspiring ideas and take them on board, whilst others may be incredibly organised and good with people management showing incredible leadership qualities.

Recognising the strengths of the team makes each person feel valued and excited to add some input into the big picture, and thus adding to each events unique style, and a constantly developing business.

Leading by example

It is important to maintain the highest of standards at all times, such as attitude and appearance, and for our team to respect our standards we need them to feel they are led by example by their managers, and also that there is a strong mutual respect. We expect our managers to do a great job, be widely experienced in their field, be firm, listen to their teams needs, and always be kind and fair.

Embracing diversity

We embrace diversity and love that our team are all from different backgrounds, different ages and have very different life experiences, all working together to create successful events, as this makes us see things from such a wide range of viewpoints and again all goes to create totally unique experiences, and makes our team fit in well to all environments.

PenniBlack team serving champagne in the sunshine.

Fair, constructive, and empowering feedback

Criticism must always be constructive and ending with a positive result. This is why we have regular leadership meetings to discuss how to get the best outcome from even the most difficult of situations, and that we have taken on board everyones views and that the information we have received is accurate.

No member of the team should ever point the finger, blame, or humiliate another team member. If for example a team member should drop a tray, or break a glass, it is embarrassing for them and we know the best way to manage is to support them, help minimise the damage and encourage them to go back out and continue to work to their best ability.

Development

We want to ensure our team are constantly developing, training them in different areas such as silver service, bar set up, even team management or kitchen hands, so they can have a wider CV of experience thus building their confidence, enthusiasm, and experience that they can use in all areas of their life.

Remember a valued team member will always be honest, loyal and speak their mind.

For further advice and consultancy on team productivity visit www.beyondsatisfaction.co.uk.

PenniBlack events team setting tables for a banquet.