"It didn’t even matter what was in the bag..."
Mar 01, 2024Surprised AND Delighted in Virginia Beach.
I did not fill out a preference sheet noting that I liked freshly pressed juices. No one interviewed me to discover my passion toward symbolic gifts like gratitude stones and smiling mini statues. But, upon my arrival at a lovely hotel in the North Beach section of Virginia Beach (Coastal Hospitality’s Holiday Inn & Suites), I was both SURPRISED AND DELIGHTED.
After a long 4+ hour drive in sometimes stop-and-go traffic, I was ready to relax and prepare for the next day’s session.
My late lunch didn’t leave me satisfied by the time I returned back to my room. I wished I had picked up some snacks for later. Seconds after thinking this thought, there is a knock at my door. Allie from the sales team delivered to me one of the most thoughtful welcome amenities I’ve ever received. It just happens to include a few mini chocolate bars, a freshly pressed bottle of juice, the most heartfelt welcome note from Mary, Danielle, and the team, and a mini “Syd; the SuburbanMonk” character.
Immediately I felt even more welcome.
Coastal Hospitality’s Holiday Inn & Suites, North Beach
The chocolates were eaten and a smiling statue was placed next to my laptop to keep me company, while creatively finishing my message and looking at the ocean.
Syd; the SuburbanMonk
Moments later, another knock at the door. This time, a lovely bottle of wine for me to take home to my wife was delivered by their HR Executive (thank you Micki), with another note expressing their gratitude. It is me that is thankful.
I continued to observe this “surprise and delight” concept delivered to each other.
Oakley at the desk shared that her repeat guests know she loves pizza, so if they are out getting a slice, they always bring a few back for her.
Tade (their Sales and Marketing Senior Leader) came to pick me up for coffee and gave another colleague a gift bag and a hug as her puppy had recently passed away.
During the session, associates introduced themselves to each other and made single-sitting attendees feel welcome and connected. Thoughtful attendees were bringing multiple water and snacks from the back of the room to share with their table mates. Finally, before my drive home, the Food and Beverage team thoughtfully reserved a few extra treats and drinks for me to go.
You don’t need to be “luxury” to be thoughtful.
You don’t need to “spend money” to be considerate.
You don’t need to be a “psychic” to surprise someone.
A great reminder next time you are looking to make someone on your team, in your family or a friend feel special. What are you doing to show thoughtfulness to others?
