vulnerable positions and not good at something, where
you can learn along with them. It humanizes us, and it
helps build trust. They know we’re willing to do something
we’ve never done before or something we look silly doing.
They’re used to seeing us as experts, which is good for professional
reasons, but I also want them to trust me as a
person. The reason we’re having fun together is that it has
a lot of long-term benefits.”
La Rive doesn’t do a flash mob at every meeting, but it
does try to keep the mood upbeat. For example, the leadership
team might greet staff members by name as they
enter a room decorated with balloons and bright colors,
with music playing in the background. La Rive focuses on
little details like these to make what should be mundane
meetings much more appealing.
To freshen up your own meetings while keeping costs
down—necessary in the current economic climate—try to
tap into community connections, friendships and partnerships.
To provide food for these meetings, La Rive sometimes
trades services with another property. Additionally,
Smith says that everyone knows interesting people—the
key is to think about ways to incorporate their skills. For
“My belief is that when you have fun together,
it creates a bond together and deepens our
connection.”
– YVONNE SMITH, Director of Spa and Resort Retail, La Rive Spa at Northern Quest Resort & Casino
La Rive Spa's staff is more engaged due to the emphasis on a fun work environment.
JUNE 2020 ■ PULSE 35