Faulkner Design Group's Annual Forward: Building Connections to Shape the Future
At Faulkner Design Group, an annual event called the Forward takes center stage. This cherished long-standing tradition brings together the entire team, including members from all departments, such as the warehouse, installation group, accounting, and marketing. The brainchild of Faulkner Design Group’s founder and CEO, Adrienne Faulkner, the Forward embodies the company's commitment to team building, growth, and propelling themselves towards a bright future. Legendary in its own right, the Forward is symbolic of the team's culture and the following feature highlights its significance and key takeaways from the most recent event.
The Forward: A Celebration of Team Building and Growth
The Forward, an eagerly anticipated event at Faulkner Design Group, represents a departure from the conventional notion of a retreat. Rather than retreating or literally moving backward, the Forward propels the team forward, both personally and professionally. Since 1998, this annual gathering has served as an opportunity for the entire team to come together, fostering team growth, deepening connections, and collectively envisioning the company's future.
A Theme for Inspiration and Direction
Each Forward event revolves around a unique theme, carefully chosen to reflect the company's experiences or emphasize specific brand values. This year's theme was "Be Amazing," an inspiring rallying cry that resonated throughout the event. The team adorned shirts emblazoned with the theme, and motivational speakers encouraged the attendees to explore the realm of effective communication with clients. Through these sessions, the team learned valuable tools to engage with clients more effectively, improving their ability to convey stories and ideas with confidence and clarity.
The Power of Team Building
Team building lies at the heart of every Forward experience. This year, Faulkner Design Group introduced a single-day getaway at Chicken N Pickle featuring an overview of the firm, an engaging session for professional development, and of course, a high-stakes pickleball tournament. The teams were thoughtfully constructed, pairing individuals who typically do not work alongside each other. This arrangement provided a unique opportunity for team members to collaborate, fostering connections and nurturing a stronger sense of camaraderie. By encouraging collaboration outside of traditional work environments, the Forward strengthens the bonds between team members, creating opportunities for a harmonious and cohesive work culture.
Looking back at various Forward events over the years with our great team!
Fostering Relationships: Faulkner Design Group and DESI
One notable aspect of the Forward is its ability to bring together the Faulkner Design Group team and their logistics partner company, DESI. While some team members regularly collaborate with the DESI team, there are others who seldom get the opportunity. The Forward serves as a platform for team members from both companies to spend valuable time together, cultivating stronger relationships and enjoying some much-deserved downtime. This shared experience diminishes unfamiliarity and enables a familial feel among the team.
The Unique Culture of Faulkner Design Group
What sets Faulkner Design Group apart from other firms is its extraordinary company culture. The team's genuine appreciation for the company's values and atmosphere cultivates a sense of loyalty and commitment. With a diverse group that includes both long-tenured professionals and recent graduates and many in between, the company promotes a culture of support and growth rather than competition. Instead of striving to be individually superior, team members collaborate to elevate one another, nurturing a strong and inclusive core connection.
Much like their designs, FDG’s cultural events like the Forward are uniquely programmed, with no two alike. Locations have ranged from Utah to Oklahoma and many places in between. There is no doubt that the Forward holds special memories for those who have attended. In addition to this year’s pickleball, events have included a top chef-style competition, horseback riding, canoeing, and ziplining. Among the most talked about events was attending a Kid Rock concert at the Choctaw Casino in 2018, understandably that year’s theme was FDG Rocks!
“Although planning outdoor activities has its uncertainties, there is something about being outdoors, on a hike or in a jeep that creates a shared experience that just doesn’t happen in the office,” said Adrienne Faulkner. “Impromptu conversations and learning something new about your teammates foster long-lasting, meaningful relationships.”
A Vision for the Future
The Forward marks a significant milestone in celebrating achievements, welcoming new additions to the Faulkner family, and reaffirming the commitment to pursuing excellence. Quarterly and annual goals are established and revisited regularly, aligning with the company's overarching mission. By employing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), the team ensures that everyone is moving in sync toward shared objectives. The Forward serves as a time for the Faulkner Design Group team to recap the year's accomplishments and review annual goals.
“We really see the Forward as an investment in the future of the firm. The stronger we are as a team, the better we can serve our clients. A day or two away from the office is well worth the time to build a team accountable to one another,” according to Faulkner.
The annual Forward event at Faulkner Design Group encapsulates the essence of the company's culture, values, and commitment to growth. With a focus on team building, open communication, and fostering connections, the Forward plays a pivotal role in solidifying the team's unity and propelling them toward an amazing future. By embracing a unique culture, providing a flexible work environment, and maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie, Faulkner Design Group continues to distinguish itself as a leader in the field of interior design for multi-family properties and senior living communities.
