Hosting your team or your clients at a special event provides a relaxed environment to get to know people on a deeper level. Salary and therefore cash, is seen as the baseline compensation in a business transaction between an organisation and its employee. Conversely, a non-cash reward is viewed as a vehicle for celebration. Non-cash rewards and recognition generate an enthusiasm cash cannot deliver. The social aspect has a direct impact on culture – visible celebration and rewards impact the sense of friendly competition, team pride, and community within a business. With a customer it is an expression of gratitude for the business relationship and shows that it is not taken for granted. Whatever industry your business is in, competition is tough and letting your customers know you appreciate them with positive experiences is a powerful tool to set you and your business apart.
It is a privilege to to work with fantastic people and as such, on Saturday 20th October, I invited former clients and friends to Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea play Manchester United.
The full works
I have always maintained that an opportunity to watch live sport is a great day out. This is certainly the case with Premier League teams. Furthermore, thanks to the generosity of former ticketing partners, my guests were treated to a Chelsea Club Level VIP Box with full hospitality.
We had a die-hard Chelsea fan in our party which was a particular pleasure to have him with us. People with passion are great people to have around.
As with all events, I arrived early to check everything was ready ahead of the guests’ arrival and seemed to find myself entangled in the arrival of the home side. Sidestepping selfie hunters, I had a quick word with Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri and mentioned that a win today would be extremely helpful.
It was an early kick-off at 12:30 and the service in the box starts from about 11am. With Champagne to toast the occasion, we all felt incredibly lucky, no matter what shirt you were cheering for.
[envira-gallery id=”551″]The result
Chelsea started strong in the first half, swiftly taking the lead. Mourinho clearly had a few words about losing face on familiar territory during half time and Manchester United soon equalised. Another goal from Manchester United shook the home side, and my Chelsea guest, into a small state of panic. With moments to go, Chelsea clawed it back taking it to 2-2. Blue jubilation erupted on the side lines and I breathed a sigh of relief. (Victory is obviously never guaranteed, but it helps. A draw at the very least) In a final flourish of drama, one of the Chelsea staff took his celebration a little too far in front of Mr Mourinho which resulted in a skirmish around the dugout, much to the delight of the onlooking cameras.
I love to play host and to create memorable experiences for people. Its in my blood. I always appreciate the people I work with and the enduring business relationships I have built and maintained. Football isn’t everyones game but there is always merit in good people coming together to connect.
Very best,
Natalie
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