Todd Earwood » Fun In Biz

Lighten Up Your Work

Todd Earwood — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:30:18 +0000

Most of us spend a majority of our waking hours working because we’re required or we voluntarily choose to labor. Some even consider their work as part (sometimes too great) of their personal identity.

There’s no question during this economic downturn business can be very serious. Just recently, I’ve heard work compared to war, a long slog, a roller coaster and a daily grind. These arduous cliches and somber overtones quite frankly are unnecessary.

It’s my contention work doesn’t have to be so negative. It CAN be fun and productive. We add to this pessimistic view by stereotyping job roles such as HR, Legal, IT and Accounting as rigid and yes, sadly some people encourage that view. However, there are some that refuse to fit that mold despite their discipline. Which is one reason, I love Christy, the Accounts Payable (AP) person from a client’s company. Not only do they pay regularly (which is HUGE), but she (an accountant by trade) does her job with flair and humor. Christy’s entire department was recognized yesterday in a meeting for being a pleasure to work with. Yes, you read that correctly… an Accounting department is dare I say, FUN!

We each have to make a living, but we have to also live. Seriousness at work is just overrated and I believe it won’t get you ahead. Don’t confuse dedication or professionalism with being rigid and hiding your personality at work. I’ve saved a few of Christy’s emails and pasted them below to remind us all to lighten up at work and enjoy the people.

Quarter til 5:00, with plans to go to the TRC Bash,
Wouldn’t you know, my computer decides to crash!
Void the checks, re-start the process,
Such is the life of an AP goddess!

Three nearly-deaf old men sat on a bench. The first one said “It’s windy” to which the second replied, “No, it’s Thursday” causing the last one to say “Me too, let’s go get a beer”. If any of you are “Thursday”, come get your check and go get a drink. Have a great night!

Sorry I fell behind
but want to keep it “above the line”
No excuses, blame or gripe
I’ll just bid you a quick “Good Night”

Waiting on your check . . . well wait no longer! Your ship has come in, your egg has hatched, your gift has arrived . . . your check is now awaiting you on the sunny 5th floor! Now aren’t you glad you worked late!!!!

Chili’s Is Firm But Fun

Todd Earwood — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 15:39:48 +0000

As promised, I’ll try to keep posting fun things businesses are doing each Friday. Most of us ignore parking signs threatening to tow our cars. I really liked this Chili’s sign because they do need to keep spaces for carry out customers, but they have a little fun with their firm message.

I’ve seen some comments on Flickr saying this messaging would turn some people off, but I think the turnoff should be an organization being serious at all times. Kudos to Chili’s.

Flickr Photo Credit: Jude

Humorous Hot Sauce

Todd Earwood — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 22:52:07 +0000

Most of the time we encounter organizations trying to be professional and quite frankly that can come off as stuffy and impersonal. While some folks don’t seem to know the difference between individuality and acting, looking or speaking as a responsible employee, I think there is HUGE opportunity in a company showing some personality.

So, I’m going to try to start a new trend on my blog by highlighting when I see businesses having fun each Friday.

A recent stop by Taco Bell (yes, it was late) gave me the idea. When you get taco sauce (any of their three flavors), you’ll be reminded me how they like to have fun with their customers. (Flickr photo credit: Rebecca_Ro)

Taco Bell (as most companies) for years didn’t look for opportunities to have fun (see example at right), but I appreciate good humor and it’s refreshing to see. Where else could or does Taco Bell show its personality? What do these packets say to you about their brand, products or employees?

Humor in Business

Todd Earwood — Thu, 24 May 2007 04:39:55 +0000

I think most people take business too seriously. Most of us could stand a good dose of calm-yourself-down. This picture was taken during lunch at Houlihan’s restaurant inside St. Louis’ Union Station. Their irreverence was refreshing and beats the fire out of “stuffy” corporate mission statements about service.