Part of what makes the culture here at OneDigital so unique is the feel-good atmosphere created by each of our employees. Honestly, for us, it’s second nature; we have a genuine desire to connect with others to foster that environment of inclusivity.
A major support component is finding ways to build connections while still having a little fun with our everyday tasks -- the latest being a new twist on the out-of-office message. Some of the folks around the office are kicking it up a notch, crafting clever out-of-office messages that’ll put your standardized auto-reply to shame. And the best part of all, it’s fun, easy and simple to create.
You may be surprised to know that something as simple as having a creative out-of-office message can have quite the impact. Consider our clients for example, research shows that clients typically feel neglect and frustration when you’re away and can’t be reached for a while. Imagine how adding a little humor or wit to your auto-reply email can alter their mood. Not only that, it creates a chance to see more of that winning personality that makes you so great. Plus, think about how it contributes to that close-knit setting we hold so dear. It opens the door to share experiences and commonalities that forge stronger bonds with others in our office and those across the country.
I think back to my most recent getaway. I wanted to share not just my whereabouts and excitement for the trip, but I needed my team to know why my time away from the office is so precious. So, I took the more personable approach, and came up with:
Hello – I’m on another ADVENTURE – this time on the Baltic Sea. Thank you, OneDigital, for allowing me the flexibility to do this thing that I love. I travel to regroup, to reinvent myself, to be the best me I can be, to find joy in the ordinary and peace in exploring. I travel to BE. “You’ll never know until you go!”
I couldn’t believe the replies wanting to know how the trip had gone. I was able to share stories and pictures, but most importantly, I was able to connect. So the next time you are away from the office, keep your colleagues and clients in the loop with a little humor and delight. Just because you’re away for a while doesn’t mean you can’t still be part of the fun that makes this place so great.
- Elizabeth Chrane, Executive Vice President of HR & Culture