I read a lot of posts/ articles in the LinkedIn environment about the importance of cultivating a positive/ supportive workplace culture, but rarely do I see any visual evidence of such cultures existing. As many will already know, I am a strong proponent of striving and driving towards achieving workplaces which put people first – and business objectives second. This orientation motivated me to write my first book in 2016.
Among other pursuits I’m presently managing the processing of the 2019 apple harvest at a moderately sized Hawke’s Bay orchard and pack house operation (Chestergrove Orchards) – including the contractual engagement of personnel. As those who have managed a seasonal workforce may know, the horticulture industry relies on a large number of willing (work-ready) people being available to be a part of either a picker team or a pack house team. Without these people the harvest volumes processed by orchards around the world would be considerably compromised.
This season we have been particularly fortunate to have formed a pack house team which comprises a diverse range of individuals – local Kiwis and visiting overseas people combined. It is this diversity of people (and values within) which I believe has given rise to the positive “can-do” work environment that we experience as a team week to week.
Yesterday we said goodbye to a couple from Europe who are moving-on with the next phase of their travels through New Zealand – heading southward into the South Island. Completely at their discretion and as their initiative they made a range of beautiful baked apple dishes, which the owners of Chestergrove Orchards complemented with a beer shout.
Putting all the flowery words aside which are often used to describe a favourable workplace culture, here is a visual understanding of such a culture in reality.
The master bakers behind the delightful baked apple creations.
A touch of dancing to farewell the happy travellers.