25 Mar More Than Just Spreadsheets: Our Team Bowling Day & Why Culture Matters
If you walked into our office on a typical Wednesday, you’d hear the rhythmic tapping of keyboards, the low hum of discussions about VAT returns, and perhaps the occasional sigh of relief when a complex set of annual accounts finally balances to the penny. We love what we do, but let’s be honest, accountancy is a high-focus, high-pressure industry.
That’s why, this week, we decided to trade the spreadsheets for strikes and the calculators for… well, slightly heavier balls.
We took the whole Harrison’s Accountancy team out for a bowling day and a light lunch. It wasn't about hitting targets or discussing CIS compliance; it was a simple "thank you" for the incredible effort and dedication everyone has shown over the past few busy months.
Stepping Away from the Desk
Why do we leave the office to find our best rhythm?
Sometimes, the best meetings happen away from the desk. When you're constantly looking at data, it’s easy to forget that at the heart of every great accountancy firm is a group of human beings. Watching colleagues who usually spend their days deep in technical client work transform into surprisingly competitive bowlers was an absolute joy.
It turns out that the same attention to detail required for bookkeeping services translates remarkably well to aiming for a spare in the tenth frame!
Why Culture Isn’t Just a Buzzword
Is a team-building day just a "nice to have," or is it essential?
In the corporate world, "company culture" is a phrase that gets thrown around a lot. But at Harrison’s Accountancy, it’s something we take quite personally. Days like our bowling trip are a reminder of why culture matters. It’s not just about the work we do; it’s about the people we do it with.
Accountancy can be a solitary profession if you let it be. You can get lost in the numbers. However, we’ve found that when our team shows up with commitment, good humour, and real care for one another, the quality of our work for you: our clients: reaches a whole new level.
The Science of Small Wins (and Strikes)
What does the data say about getting out of the office?
You might think that taking an afternoon off would slow us down, but research actually suggests the opposite. According to studies by Gallup, highly engaged teams show 23% higher profitability. Why? Because engagement isn't just about working harder; it’s about working better together.
Team bowling days create what experts call "low-risk environments." When we’re on the lanes, the stakes are low (unless you’re playing against our more competitive team members!), but the psychological benefits are high. Here is how it impacts the way we serve you:
- Improved Communication: Breaking down the formal barriers of the office allows our team to talk more freely. This carries back into the office, leading to better collaboration on complex management accounts.
- Stress Reduction: The "tax season" grind is real. Activities like this allow the team to decompress and recharge, preventing burnout and ensuring we’re sharp when you need us most.
- Building Trust: When we cheer for a colleague’s strike (or laugh together at a gutter ball), we’re building a foundation of trust. That trust is vital when we’re working together to solve a difficult tax problem for a sole trader.
The Human Side of Harrison’s Accountancy
Who are the people behind your tax returns?
We pride ourselves on being a friendly, approachable firm. We don’t want to be the "stuffy accountants" in grey suits who only speak in jargon. We’re real people who enjoy a laugh, a bit of friendly competition, and a good lunch.
This "people-first" approach is exactly why we invest in our team. We know that if our staff are happy and feel valued, they will go the extra mile for our clients. Whether you are coming to us for company formation or looking for a self-assessment accountant, you’re interacting with someone who is part of a supportive, motivated team.
More Than Just a "Thank You"
How does a bowling day translate to better client service?
You might be wondering: "That’s great, Dan, but how does you hitting pins help my business?"
It’s a fair question! The answer lies in the "Harrisons' Way." A connected team is a proactive team. When our payroll accountants feel connected to our tax specialists, information flows faster. When our bookkeepers feel appreciated, they spot the small details that might otherwise be missed.
Our team shows up every single day with real care for what we do together. That pride translates into the reports we send you, the advice we give over the phone, and the way we handle your sensitive financial data.
Investing in the Future
What’s next for the team?
We’re already back at our desks, refreshed and ready to tackle the upcoming April deadlines. The competitive spirit from the bowling alley has been channelled back into our work, and the office is buzzing with energy.
We are always looking for ways to grow, not just in size, but in the way we support our staff. If you’re a talented professional looking for a workplace that values culture as much as technical skill, feel free to check out our work with us page. We’re always on the lookout for great people to join the family.
A Final Note of Thanks
I want to take a moment to publicly thank every member of the Harrison’s Accountancy team. Your hard work over the last few months hasn't gone unnoticed. You make this business what it is, and I am incredibly proud to work alongside every one of you.
And to our clients: thank you for trusting us with your business. Know that when you work with us, you aren't just getting a service provider: you’re getting a team that truly cares about what they do and the people they do it for.
Need a hand with your accounts from a team that actually enjoys working together?
Feel free to explore our full range of accountancy services or get in touch for a chat. We promise to keep the bowling stories to a minimum… unless you want to hear about who got the most strikes!
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