Jess’s Perspective: Three Ways to Celebrate The Team
We speak about it often at Parade, but making people feel seen, heard and understood really is the key to creating genuine connection. It is probably one of the most valuable lessons I have taken from the past two years, and one that applies to all relationships, not just in a professional context. When it comes to celebrating the team, whether in the office or virtually, it’s not about scale but rather attention, thought and intention.
1. Make it unmistakably about them
None of us are ever too grown up for a little birthday moment, and I do think it is important not to skip the birthday basics, the cake, the card, the decorations. A birthday only comes around once a year, and it is such a simple opportunity to make someone feel seen and properly celebrated. Make a bit of a fuss, just in a way that feels personal to the individual. For some, that might be the full shebang with balloons tied to their chair, confetti scattered across their desk and the whole office singing happy birthday, while for others it might be something much quieter, like a personal card and some cupcakes with a candle. Just make sure there is a birthday gesture. If you are a team who work from the office, one thing I would say never to do is put it on the individual to bring their own cake. Some offices do this and I have never quite understood it. They should be the one being celebrated, not the one doing the work!
2. Small, thoughtful always beats grand and generic
The most meaningful gestures are always the ones that show you have been paying attention, and it is actually the simplest gestures which can be the most impactful. Anyone who knows me for example, knows I am obsessed with the Mark’s & Spencer’s giant chocolate buttons, so a bag of these, paired with a handwritten card is more than enough. It shows that someone has listened when I talk about the things I like, and in itself creates a sense of connection. It could be a familiar treat, a card written thoughtfully (not just a generic ‘Happy Birthday!’) or simply a moment of pause in the day, but these things do not require a budget, just care.
3. Show them you understand, by giving back some time
We are all incredibly busy, and the days tend to whizz by in the blink of an eye, especially when you are working, so one of the most meaningful ways to appreciate someone is simply to give them time. Giving time highlights a real understanding of what matters beyond the workplace, showing trust, respect, and genuine appreciation. It does not need to be a full day, and it does not have to happen exactly on the day itself, though if you can offer that, I absolutely would. It could be something as simple as finishing early, giving them the space to ease into their personal celebrations.
Ultimately celebrating the team is not about the moment itself, but how it makes the individual feel.