Plenty to celebrate at KCI Christmas Party

19 December 2011

Like many highlight occasions, the 2011 KCI Christmas Party followed the traditions set down in previous years.

The day started with a leisurely cup of coffee and a slice of cake, following which Director Donald Wiedemeyer got proceedings quickly underway with has famous slide show.

These slides give a detailed and powerful overview of what KCI is all about and how the company interacts with our markets.

This is always the time for the audience to keep their ears pricked, because Donald often touches upon important trends in the publishing arena: trends which could be important for future healthy growth.

After another welcome coffee break, the stage was set for presentations from around the globe. Representatives from KCI offices in Canada, Germany and China gave a good update on local staff activities, projects and plans.

Just before lunch, several staff members were called to the front to receive long-service awards. They all received heartfelt and genuine applause from colleagues – another sign of the unique family character that binds staff together at KCI.

The lunch was served buffet style, enabling staff to mix and mingle with many international friends and colleagues they often work with, but do not often get to see.

The afternoon continued with a workshop, designed to highlight the importance of recognizing cultural differences. For travelers on holiday, such differences can be a source of amazement and/or amusement. But for business relations, fully appreciating these differences can make or break a deal.

At the end of the afternoon, Directors Donald Wiedemeyer and Sjef Roymans gave an impromptu sales presentation. Their many ad libs had the audience in stitches, but there was a serious undertone: listening to clients, asking for advice and bouncing around ideas is a great way to get clients and sponsors involved in projects.

In good style, the official activities were soon brought to a close, following which colleagues were invited to adjourn to the Cuba Bar.