A LOOK BACK. A LOOK FORWARD
We say it every. single. year. – ‘what a year!’, “where did the time go?”, “Let’s hope it’s easier next year!” … would we want it any other way? Probably not. However you cut it – we usually do end on a high!
As 2024 draws to a close, we wanted to send a ‘good tidings’ message to all our friends and valued clients – so in no particular order here are some reflections, highlights, anecdotes and general musings from the Interaction team…
Happy clients, happy delegates, happy us! It really feels like a year when there’s been a plethora of positive feedback every which way! Clients that go decades back are still consistently showing up and learning with us and the proof is always in the feedback. It’s a highlight and a huge honour to continue to deliver such impactful programmes. It has also been really rewarding to work with new clients and start to forge those important relationships.
Our team has grown – HUGE highlight. 3 new full time members across the board. It speaks to our hard work and success in continuing to look after and build the business. An employee-owned business which means every member of the team is encouraged to help with this growth. That’s quite special.
An important highlight from everyone – even if they didn’t cite it, was getting rid of a dinosaur of a platform we use for our programme bookings – the detail is irrelevant but it highlights that we’re starting to take innovation a LOT more seriously which is exciting and refreshing! A bigger team with big ideas.
Another highlight of the year HAS to be taking part in the 2024 Learning Awards and our double nomination for External Learning Solution of the year and the Learning Giveback Award for our Talent Forum for which we took silver! Such a feeling of elation to kickstart our 2024 back in February!
The learning in 2024 has been diverse and varied - some great opportunities for back-office staff to experience first hand some of our programmes – particularly those big face to face early talent events with large numbers of delegates that showcase what we do best.
We’ve done some really important work with Natural England this year and being able to experience their ‘Mindfulness in Nature’ session was a privilege. Working alongside this client really highlights the impactful work we are doing in an area that is so important. It’s known how beneficial being in nature can be, so getting the opportunity to work with the people that protect and restore it is both exciting and humbling.
Embarking on a new qualification and being reminded of the benefits of ‘being a beginner’ at something – it’s a real motivator to try new things. More learning!
From one contributor - ‘so, buying my boat, does that count as a highlight? Of COURSE it counts! The rest of us live our lives vicariously through the lens of a team member living on a boat - close to nature, wildlife and incredible views. We can be anywhere and be part of a great team and contribute equally whether on land or water!
Love what you do. Not to be too cheesy but … find the joy and hold on to the passion for what you do through the good times and the bad – this is worth its weight in gold.
Our Director of Learning summed up what she’s learnt (and continues to learn) about Interaction and the people that call it home …
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new” - Socrates
So, good health, and the best of seasonal wishes to friends and valued clients for a happy and successful 2025! (we couldn’t have done 2024 without you)
The Interaction Team - year end Christmas bash!