The bell, siren and flashing strobe, indicating a new sale has been recorded, has been a standard in many businesses.  To me it conjures up memories of car dealerships, telemarketing departments and carpet stores.  So when we put a giant bell in the center of our offices that our salespeople ring when they close a deal, I was more than a bit skeptical.

But it has been infectious.  Yesterday, one of our sales guys said, “It’s been a couple days and I’m jonesing to ring that bell.”  In our environment, the bell has been the symbol of progress, of cultural change and celebration.  It is helping to link our sales team with our operations and development counterparts who are now asking “what did we win?” and “who is the new client?”  Everyone in the office now stands and applaudes when they hear the bell.

While the bell might not be right for your environment, taking the time to celebrate is.  It has been our way to draw the company together when good things happen.  I’m interested in other ways companies highlight important events and would welcome your thoughts and suggestions. 

Our sales people now have the fever and the only prescription is more cowbell…