Lands' End Polos are a popular choice for team outfitting: lots of size options, great colors, easy to throw on and go. Bet you didn't realize how versatile they can be. Add a few tasteful accessories and you instantly take the look up a notch. Running short of time? No worries. Just throw on a Pima Polo and go. You'll look perfectly presentable. But try a few scarves and see if you like the results. Even men can have a little fun. Pima is dressy enough to pair with a sport coat if the occasion calls. Take a look:
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received over 1,500 entries from companies across the country, from “Mom and Pop” operations to captains of industry. The need for a new look at work was universal.
Owned by Bill Gurasich, the historic property was renovated in 2003 into what is now a 48-room luxury boutique hotel situated near the heart of Austin, Texas.
Here, words like "family" and "friends" are used to describe people on the payroll. They roll off the tongue without a second thought. In an industry known for turnover, over 80% of the original employees are still working here today, from housekeeping to management.
From the moment you arrive, it's impossible to miss the feeling that you're staying somewhere special. But about those uniforms....
In a city full of hospitality options, Mansion at Judges' Hill spends most of its budget on customer comforts. Things like hotel uniforms took a back seat. Which is why Stephanie Reed, Guest Services Manager, decided to enter our makeover:
BEFORE: "When I started four years ago, it was a free-for-all; everyone could wear whatever they saw fit, within very loose parameters. I managed to create uniformity at the front desk through the use of blue and black, but we lacked a personality, a unique look that says, 'We're proud to work at the Mansion!' And our uniform didn't extend to the rest of the Mansion family. The only sense of branding we all had? Our name tags."
"Uniformity is important because it connects you to the brand. And the thing is, we are so passionate about what we have here," continues Stephanie.
AFTER: Our makeover experts used the basic elements of color and functionality. "We were inspired by the inside of the hotel lobby and dining area," says Geralyn Wallace, makeover stylist. "The look needed to be sophisticated for the front desk and comfortable, with ease of movement for housekeeping." The results? "Absolutely stunning!" exclaimed Lisa, General Manager, who was unaware that Stephanie had even entered the contest. "You've taken what she started and gave us a look for the entire family. Bravo!"
Stefan, Front Desk, is a college student. "When I started, it was a job to pay the bills. But it's turned out to be so much more. I worked for a major chain and the dynamic is so different here. I feel like I'm a part of something, not just a number on the payroll."
"Everyone has a say in operations. And we're put in charge of making our ideas reality. It's really great having a stake in the company." – Tiffany, Front Desk
"We're paid very well, but it's more than that. Everyone understands our role creating a wonderful guest experience. The uniform ties us all together, no matter what role we have. I appreciate that level of respect." – Elizabeth, Housekeeping
"I still can't believe we won! It's been such a great experience." – Stephanie
This non-profit organization is a safe haven for birds from around the world. The group was founded by famed Ornithologist, Walter C. Crawford, Jr.
Situated on 305 acres of Missouri woods, visitors get an up-close look at fascinating raptors: Eurasian Owls, majestic Bald Eagles and intense-yet-familial vultures from as far away as the Andes Mountain and as close as our back yard. Often rescued, these birds of prey inspire a higher level of understanding for all fortunate enough to witness their behavior.
A full-time staff of 18 (and 140 volunteers) reach 160,000 people a year through their environmental education programs in the Midwest alone. 61,000 people per year visit the facilities. That's a huge opportunity to spread their message.
BEFORE: The naturalists have a pretty standard shirt and pants uniform. But it gets cold in Missouri.
"We needed jackets," admits Teri. "A winter educational program on the shores of the Mississippi requires a warm coat, but we didn't have the funds," adds Catherine. "Wearing different styles and colors doesn't project the image we've worked so hard to build."
AFTER: toasty 3-in-1 Squall Jackets. The jackets offer year 'round protection, perfect for Missouri's changing weather. We also suggested a punch of color. Pale Emerald gives the naturalists a brighter stage presence.
"I feel like the Lands' End jackets elevate our presence a bit, giving our group added validity and recognition," says Teri.
"You'd be surprised how many people commented on our non-World Bird jackets," says Michael.
"We're open 363 days a year. We needed the jackets so much," says Catherine.
Liz adds, "she's right, it makes a difference. Thank you."
It's the eve of our (unofficial) department holiday party. It's a genuinely fun time - lots of food, great gifts, time to celebrate with our coworkers. We have an unusually cohesive group some might say. Laughter can be heard at least once a day ringing from our cubicles.
Our director insists on party entertainment in the form of games. Last year's game was classic – maybe you've seen it – identify the Christmas carol by decoding the obscure pictures. It was great. Brought out a little of our competitive spirit and sparked more laughter. So for us, games seem to work. Still not sure what she has in store this year (secretly hoping it doesn't involve coordination).
So tell me - how many of you have group games at your holiday parties? Would you shutter at the thought of teaming up with your coworkers for a little challenge? Or would you be first in line for the sack races? Take our quick poll or leave us your comments.
Fifty-five minutes on hold waiting for a live person to help me out. The reindeer lawn decoration wouldn't light, so I called the service hotline number printed in big numbers at the bottom of the instructions. I was at the mercy of an automated voice, ticking off my place in line. "You will be helped next" was repeated for at least 20 minutes. Fifty-five minutes later I was instructed to return the item to the store it was purchased for an in-store credit. Total service time: less than five minutes. Thanks. No, really.
This little exercise made me so proud to work for a company that not only stands by every purchase, but makes solving customer issues its top priority. The path was laid out for us over 40 years ago in the form of two simple words: Guaranteed. Period.® It's more than a return policy, it's our way of business.
