Magoebaskloof Strategy Weekend
By Lynn van den Berg
One thing about going away with Rubber Stamp – you work hard and then get some play!
We try to make our strategy weekends as comprehensive as possible. As the company has grown so we need more time to get through everything.
This year our work started on Wednesday evening with an Operational meeting. Here we try to identify and solve any operational issues we may have. Each department is discussed – detailed notes are kept and an action plan is agreed upon. This leaves us free in all other sessions to talk about how we are going to grow the company. These are plans we need to make that may take years to happen but gives us direction and focus.
Thursday this year was filled with training. Trotec, Trodat and Craft. We fitted in everything we possibly could fit in. Our Trodat reps in Durban and Cape Town are now equipped to do a laser demo on our Gateway Laser machines. This is important to us as these machines need quick action and personal visits. We want everyone to know about our laminates as so many stamp makers have laser machines – we all need to be able to answer all questions.
Friday – a VERY early start. At the office at 6 am – pack and depart. We stopped en route to our accommodation for zip-lining. We all agreed that it was spectacular. For many a first and a real step out of their comfort zones. We also got some really good team spirit going.
Friday night – work preparation and braai. Clive shared news from Head Office. Nice to hear what is happening on the other side of the world and how they are working to keep our products relevant and ahead of the competition.
Saturday – this is when the real work happens. We buckle down. Focus and think. Based on well-prepared presentations – we are able to understand what our colleagues are doing AND where things are changed. Then a fun evening of dress-up and cooking.
Sunday – A nice gentle walk, pack and depart.
Once back at the office we collate all our ideas and put into place tasks to ensure we tackle everything.
Nothing is forgotten or ignored.
