by Marya Pennington

 

During this time of remote work environments due to social distancing requirements, employers are being creative and adaptive in encouraging their teams while also supporting the local economy.  When businesses promote each other, they are saying to the community, “this is bigger than all of us.  This is not about competition, but collaboration”.  Being a “helper” not only gives you visibility now, but makes you memorable later! Here are some ways that your business can do the same.

 

Buy lunch or dinner for your staff and have it delivered.

Recently, while the Billings Chamber Team has been working remotely, an email was sent to each staff member that included a list of restaurants that offer delivery or take out services. Each staff member was given some dollars to spend on dinner for the evening! The team was given a break from making dinner and felt appreciated and encouraged, while at the same time many of our local eateries were supported. Double win! For a list of local restaurants and breweries that are offering take-out and delivery options, CLICK HERE.

 

Schedule a late afternoon virtual meeting and have drinks delivered.

Everyone enjoys an afternoon meeting with a drink in hand. Consider having beer or wine delivered to your staff members for a late afternoon Zoom call together as a team. Call it a staff appreciation celebration! Here is a list of businesses that are offering delivery services:

By All Means Brew Lab/Uberbrew
Yellowstone Cellars & Winery
Thirsty Street Brewing
The Divide Bar

 

Freshen up the look of your staff for virtual calls.

Consider ordering shirts with your company logo for your next Zoom call staff meeting!  Everyone gets some new branded wear and looks smart at their next virtual business meeting – no more sweatshirts! Or maybe get your staff branded coffee tumblers to use while on a call.  Marketing your organization can still happen, even via a screen. Here is a list of member businesses that offer these services:

Advertising & Promotional Specialties
Logotype Promotions
M L Schuman Co
MGR Marketing Tools
Purple Snow Promotional Products LLC
QBS Safeguard

Embroidery & Silk Screen Printing
Graphic Imprints
Mosaic Threads
Montana Correctional Enterprises

 

Provide a virtual team meeting that is fun, innovative and encouraging.

The Billings Chamber recently scheduled a call for some team building.  While it was done virtually, it provided a great way for everyone to connect, learn and engage with one another.  It also allowed for some fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking as our team anticipates moving forward in this unpredictable time. Karen Grosz with Canvas Creek Team Building designed time for us to do some goal setting and thinking outside of the box.  It was incredibly valuable and empowering! Consider scheduling her for executive or team coaching, virtual team building, a staff scavenger hunt, and even assessments and pep talks! CLICK HERE for a full description of what is offered.

Other members offering similar services:

Business Consultants
It’s Elation Inc.   
Martha Rowe Coaching               
Business Dynamics        
Whitfield Western Leadership

Entertainment (Virtual Team Building)
Magic City Productions                
GoUnite
The Grand Escape Room

 

If you are a Chamber member that is also offering any of the services mentioned in this blog, please reach out to Marya@BillingsChamber.com to be added to these lists!