Ogilvy PR London has just returned a little bleary-eyed but hugely motivated and united from its first overnight Away Day.
The setting: a beautiful collection of converted farm houses in the Kent countryside – heated swimming pool, tennis courts and rolling hills included.
The idea: to form a collective vision for the future, of best practice and team cohesion. We wanted to take a whole day out to make sure that everyone’s ideas were heard – from account executives to business partners – and to formulate a five-year plan that would see us getting bigger, stronger and better over the coming years.
The outcome: a happy bunch of campers raring to put all creative and practical insights into practice to the benefit of both the internal team, and most importantly a happy client. In summary, the whole experience was hugely rewarding and motivating, something that is perhaps scarce at this point in time in a tumultuous industry.
The day comprised of a series of team talks and group work where activities centred on our vision for the future, our strengths and weaknesses, a master class on winning new business and a thoroughly enjoyable business partners’ Q&A session. When all the serious work was done and our flip charts pushed aside, a serious amount of fun ensued…
A group of us went clay pigeon shooting – gold stars went to account directors Drennan Du Plooy and Celestine Cheong, whilst the greatest improvements came from Katie Darwin and Owen Nanlohy (think zero to hero).
Those left behind benefitted from the French Boules skills of semi-professional European champion, Senior Director Ross Cathcart. A tight competition ensued culminating with a nail-biting grand finale with Ross and Ricky Vazquez only just taking the title from brilliant newcomers Alex Clack and player-of-the-moment Lindsey Reaney.
A delicious and ample(!) Hog Roast, a highly competitive quiz, Owen’s homemade cocktails and the soundtrack from Glee ended a perfect day. No need to mention the coach ride home the next morning…
