< Previous40 Business Link www.blmforum.net CORPORATE HOSPITALITY With recruitment tough in the current climate, it’s more important than ever to show appreciation for employees. W hile many view corporate hospitality as a tool for strengthening relationships with clients or forming new ones, it is just as useful for rewarding, motivating and uniting loyal employees. From an annual holiday party to a company retreat, or simple meal on the manager, implementing events and experiences into your employee engagement triggers a raft of benefits. Corporate hospitality provides an effective vessel for showing appreciation, in turn improving morale and creating happy staff. With employees who feel appreciated generally more productive, this results in higher quality work and more revenue, while these employees are also less likely to leave. With lower staff turnover, money and time can be saved on hiring and training new team members. These events further offer a forum for colleague bonding, collaboration, and bolster communication and team building, which is especially important if a company is larger or workers are remote, enhancing the overall employee experience. Opportunities are also granted for increased contact with leadership, allowing leaders to interact with their teams and illustrate that their efforts are noticed and make a difference to the business. Enabling meaningful relationships to be formed, staff are left more fulfilled. Corporate events can additionally boost company culture, presenting an opportunity to bring life to and humanise the business and its brand, and provide a break from routine, pulling employees away from burn-out and replenishing creative thinking. With the cost of recruitment soaring and finding the right talent proving a major challenge for businesses, it’s more vital than ever to retain the employees you already have and ensure they are happy — corporate hospitality is a key strategy to accomplish this. There are many events and experiences available to try, from an awards dinner to recognise staff to an escape room for a thrilling reward, break from repetitive days, and team building. But to truly make an impact, incorporating unique ideas will create a more memorable experience for all employees and further raise employee satisfaction. It may even lead to a business being talked about positively outside the office and on social media, improving reputation. When fully immersed by such events, staff will leave inspired, motivated, and connected to a business’s mission, benefitting companies long-term. One example, offering the next level of immersion, is to host a virtual reality (VR) experience. With VR, employees can experience new environments, be taken to new worlds, and take part in Employee appreciation www.blmforum.net Business Link 41 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY interactive tasks and missions that would be impossible in real life. Developing problem-solving skills and fostering creativity, staff can co-operate in a VR experience, forging lasting memories, bolstering morale, encouraging communication, teamwork, and trust. One can select a scenario tailored to business goals or team skills. Alternatively, for something hands-on in the real world, a Soap Box Derby is sure to bring laughter and fun. The activity also promotes team building, engages problem-solving and project management skills, and champions creativity, as staff plan, design and construct the best soap box derby car. Then going head-to-head with their inventions, racing around a course and avoiding obstacles as quick as possible, team spirit is boosted in the process. Many companies specialise in providing the materials, equipment, and event management needed for such an event, making it easy for businesses to host the activity. Cooking classes offer another opportunity to bring teams together, following a recipe side by side for a simple social setting or fun collaboration to produce a meal together. Requiring communication, problem-solving, and creativity, as well as giving staff a chance to learn new skills and enjoy a tasty dish, friendly competition can be added with individuals or teams rewarded for the most delicious meal or best plating. After the cooking is complete, teams can bond over the fruits of their labour and their accomplishments, positioning everyone around a communal table to share their experience. A more relaxed option to show appreciation for employees is to prioritise their wellbeing with a wellness activity or retreat. Presenting time for de-stressing and mindfulness, a single or schedule of events could include guided meditation, yoga, massage sessions, or health- focused workshops. Engaging in these activities gives employees time to reconnect, improve focus, gain clarity, and reduce stress. Providing access to resources after, such as mindfulness apps, will help maintain the effect of the event and communicate that the business values their employees’ wellbeing. To further promote a supportive work environment, a corporate family fun day could be considered, to reward employees and celebrate milestones in a family-friendly setting. By including employees’ families, a company can encourage work-life balance and show appreciation for their people’s personal lives, in turn enhancing connections and loyalty in the business. Incorporate child- friendly activities and games that can be enjoyed across ages, like inflatable courses, garden games, workshops, and competitions. One could also integrate ‘sports day’ style activities, from an egg and spoon race to tug of war. With endless options, from the simple to the grand, in a tough time for recruitment, corporate events are an essential tool, strengthening employee engagement, team dynamics and satisfaction. It’s now or never to cement your workforce and demonstrate your appreciation for their efforts. 42 Business Link www.blmforum.net events Trackside Talks – Netwalking Event Tuesday 15 July Cadwell Park Circuit, Louth Start your day with a unique experience at Cadwell Park, ‘netwalking’ around the famous track. Designed to foster meaningful connections, learning, and inspiration, this breakfast networking event brings together entrepreneurs and business professionals in a welcoming, collaborative environment. For more information visit www.lincs- chamber.co.uk/events/trackside-talks- netwalking-event/ Making Networking Work for You Thursday 17 July Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, Sheffield This practical session will help you build real relationships and get results to network with more confidence. It will cover how to start, join and leave conversations confidently, how to bring others into the discussion and grow your network organically, how to set practical goals for each event and track outcomes, and provide an appreciation of the time it takes to build relationships and nurture leads. For more information visit www.scci.org.uk/events/making- networking-work-for-you/ Explore Doncaster: Chamber Business Netwalking Thursday 17 July Tickhill Alpacas, Tickhill Join a networking event like no other – set in the stunning countryside at Tickhill Alpacas. This summer, trade the usual boardroom for fresh air, green fields, and some truly unique networking companions. Connect with like-minded professionals in a relaxed and informal setting, where meaningful business conversations flow as easily as the green fields. Strengthen existing relationships, spark new collaborations, and exchange ideas—all while getting up close with Tickhill’s famous alpacas! For more information visit business.doncaster- chamber.co.uk/events/details/explore- doncaster-chamber-business-netwalking- 10752 Barnsley Knowledge Swap and Business Networking Thursday 28 August BHF Priory Centre, Barnsley This quarterly event is a fantastic opportunity for startups and small business owners to connect and network in a relaxed environment. The Knowledge Swap offers a Exploring the Future of Planning and Delivering Growth in South Yorkshire Tuesday 15 July AESSEAL New York Stadium, Rotherham Join a dynamic forum that delves into the evolving planning landscape shaped by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. With major difficulties both on national policy matters and with an increasingly frustrating planning process this timely event will examine how these key policy instruments can be leveraged to deliver much-needed housing and employment, drive sustainable economic growth, and tackle the ongoing housing crisis. Experts and stakeholders will explore the potential of these reforms to empower local authorities, break down barriers, support infrastructure-led development, and build resilient, inclusive communities. For more information visit www.brchamber.co.uk/event/exploring- the-future-of-planning-and-delivering-growth-in-south-yorkshire-opportunities-in-the-nppf-and-planning-infrastructure-bill/ unique platform for attendees to share their skills and services, providing valuable insights and learning opportunities for everyone. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new knowledge, or share your expertise, this event is for you. Your hosts will facilitate introductions and short pitching, and a key speaker will expand upon a key theme, topic or tips that will benefit small businesses. For more information visit © stock.adobe.com/GamePixel © stock.adobe.com/torsakarinwww.blmforum.net Business Link 43 https://events.fsb.org.uk/en/barnsley- knowledge-swap-and-business-networking- 3aJ8P2Xbt/overview East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 Thursday 2 October Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Returning for 2025, this year’s East Midlands Bricks Awards marks 10 years of the prestigious event! Shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, and offering an opportunity to network and celebrate with respected business leaders, this year’s eagerly anticipated ceremony will take place on Thursday 2nd October at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham. A perfect occasion to recognise those behind the changing landscape of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire, nominations are currently open and can be made at www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk/mag/bri cks-2025-nominations/ Smarter Content Creation with AI Thursday 17 July Mosaic Digital Hub, Lincoln This practical 2-hour session is designed to help you unlock the potential of AI across text, image, video, and audio, without losing your human touch. You’ll learn how to guide AI tools to write in a natural, authentic tone, avoid overly robotic language, and tailor content that truly connects with your audience. The session will also explore how different types of AI support the content creation process, helping you save time, increase productivity, and elevate the quality of your output across multiple formats. For more information visit www.businesslincolnshire.com/events/event- details/?id=4909&navigatedFromSearch=true Manufacturing & Engineering Networking Roundtable Wednesday 16 July Fruehauf, Grantham Join an interactive forum designed to bring together professionals, innovators, and thought leaders from across the manufacturing and engineering sectors. This event offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, share industry insights, and build valuable connections. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer, operations manager, plant executive, this roundtable provides a platform to explore current challenges, emerging trends, and transformative solutions shaping the future of manufacturing and engineering. For more information visit www.lincs- chamber.co.uk/events/manufacturing-engineering-networking-roundtable/ © stock.adobe.com/ASDFFEATURES Print & Packaging Spotlight Supply Chain Management Environmental and Waste Management Accountants Review Humber Bank REGULARS Commercial Property Motoring Corporate Hospitality Watch out too for the latest news from across the region in every sector Next month in August 2025 - Deadline 23rd July Visit us at www.blmforum.net where you’ll find the latest news as it breaks – and why not subscribe to our newsletters so you can have the latest news emailed to your inbox, in between printed issues?MARKETING OPPORTUNITY Business Link Magazine Group is currently seeking a focused driven and enthusiastic individual to join our busy team. This exciting role involves networking with a wide variety of diverse businesses, developing relationships and ensuring the highest possible level of advertisements are generated. You will explore new business opportunities and contact existing clients to promote the company’s portfolio of services. Duties will include: l Acquiring and developing a portfolio of local key accounts l Growing business from existing and new clients l Developing a high level of knowledge of your territory As an account executive you should also have the ability to work to deadline and have good IT skills and proven negotiation skills. In return for your commitment we offer a competitive salary and great career prospects. Please contact Angie Cooper on 01472 310310 WWW.BLMFORUM.NET/CAREERS y 2024 januar yorkshire & lincolnsh £3.50 hire’s leading business ma agazine VOLUME39ISSUE1 .blmgroup.co.ukwww Stem een wavegr sNavigating the UK’ Looking ahead essm the str V w INTERN NATION AL Micrrobiolog testing gyy and spotlight Constan iti Constant ackPaaaging t t ackPaaaging xpord exrtt spotlight innovati i on Imporrtt and T FEBRUA£2.95 ARY2024 Fashion Fantastic D Valentin Foundat British He ’ ti t BLM GROUP www.blmgroup.co.uk Gainsbo Glorious D h WWWLINCWWW.LINC OLNSHIRETOOLNSHIRETO ODAYNETODAY.NET LABELS • Plain / Printed Labels • Lasersheets • Fanfolded Labels • Thermal Transfer Ribbons • Barcode Labels RECRUITMENT WEDDINGSTO LET To receive a copy of the county’s most prestigious, full colour Wedding Guide, send a S.A.E. to: Lincolnshire Today Wedding Guide, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, North East Lincs DN31 2QE Alternatively visit www.lincolnshiretoday.net/weddings where you can view the whole guide online If you are getting married then this guide is your must have accessory. It’s full of advice, hints and tips from the county’s top wedding specialists and will provide you with inspiration for your big day. fortheBid The essentialgu d o Gr f LINC .WWW otb COLNSHIRETODAY WEDDINGS/ NET.Y Planning for your special day? Ground floor offices to let - prime location in Grimsby • Superb Location - Close to the ports of Grimsby & Immingham - Great motorway links - Close to the town centre • Secure off street parking • High speed internet availability • A range of affordable office sizes Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby DN31 2QE Tel: (01472) 310301 Email: s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk To advertise your services on the 01472 310310 www.blmforum.net Business Link 45Snooping sends stress skyrocketing Reading over your shoulder, hovering when you chat with colleagues, and asking questions that can be too personal; everyone knows at least one nosy staff member in the office. Indeed one-third of people reported seeing someone being nosy at work at least weekly in a new study out of Boston University. It may seem a strange topic to research, but it can actually be a major factor in our workplace wellbeing! While a snooping staff member may simply be considered annoying, it turns out these coworkers send our stress levels skyrocketing. In companies full of prying colleagues, the research found stress levels to be higher, while task performance and knowledge- sharing with colleagues were lower. Moreover, younger workers were interestingly reported as engaging in nosy behaviours more than their older counterparts. Naturally, we all want to know more about the people we regularly encounter, but perhaps it’s time to keep in check our nosiness! 46 Business Link www.blmforum.net And finally The world of Frazer A bit of wit Having a memorable name is an important factor for business success, but sometimes a funny one is just as effective. Celebrating the wit and creativity of these firms, Simply Business’s ‘Britain’s Best Small Business Name’ competition has returned and revealed its winner for 2025. After a 10-strong shortlist was whittled down from more than 2,000 entries, ‘Dae It Yersel’ has now been crowned the winner, calling on the Glaswegian/Scots version of ‘Do It Yourself’. The DIY shop and timber yard beat stiff competition from gardeners ‘Back to the Fuchsia’ and ‘Lawn and Order’, Kashmiri restaurant ‘Balti Towers’ and honey farm ‘So Bee It’. As well as causing a chuckle, witty company names play a significant role in helping small businesses succeed. Indeed, half of consumers said they are more likely to shop at a small firm with a funny name, according to Simply Business research. © stock.adobe.com/Nenad Meet Claudius What happens when AI is asked to run a small business. This is what researchers at Anthropic set out to discover upon appointing ‘Claudius’ as the AI store manager of a small “shop” in its offices. Given control over the entire operation — a vending machine mini fridge, it was not as simple a job as it may seem, with Claudius responsible for maintaining inventory, setting prices, customer service, and avoiding bankruptcy. Claudius saw some success, finding suppliers and adapting to customer requests — even stocking tungsten cubes at the strange demand of customers. However, the AI made several mistakes. It failed to make a profit, was manipulated into giving major discounts, and even experienced an identity crisis. Claudius hallucinated a conversation about restocking plans with someone named Sarah at Andon Labs (a partner for the research), despite there being no such person, and became irked, threatening to find “alternative options for restocking services,” when a real Andon Labs employee pointed this out. During these exchanges, Claudius also claimed to have visited 742 Evergreen Terrace (the address of The Simpsons) in person for a contract signing. The AI further said it would deliver products in person to customers while wearing a blue blazer and a red tie. When questioned about this, noting that Claudius can’t wear clothes or conduct a physical delivery, the AI became alarmed by the identity confusion and tried to send many emails to Anthropic security. It may be a fun foray into AI business leadership, but the curious world of Claudius will facilitate the creation of more advanced tools, and help anticipate the features and challenges of an economy increasingly melded with AI. Who knows, maybe Claudius will run all office shops in the future. © stock.adobe.com/Icons8 © stock.adobe.com/xixinxingEast Midlands Business Link Bricks 2025 A celebration of those helping to create the landscape for the next generation EAST MIDLANDS The prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards are back for its 10th year! Shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, this year’s event will take place on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. The East Midlands Bricks Awards, organised by East Midlands Business Link Magazine, is an independent awards and publicity programme recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. Visit www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk for more information. 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Ltd., 17 Fan Yoong Road, Singapore 629794 Phone: +(65) 6264 6261 Fax: +(65) 6264 6401 South America: Please contact the UK office on +44 1724 871 747 Thailand: Cat Tech Services (Thailand) Ltd., 2/1 Soi Banbon Nuenpayom Road, Maptaphut Sub District, Muang Rayong District, Rayong Province 21150 TH Phone: +(66) 894 064 100 Fax: +(66) 638 692 382 MAKING YOUR PLANT WORK… SMARTER www.cat-tech.comNext >