Ringing the bell to celebrate success and keep your team engaged and motivated
My first business was a leading multi £M manufacturing business and each week, if and when we hit the ambitious sales target, the MD rang a huge brass bell in the office and on the shop floor.
It was an indication that we were doing well and gave everybody something to cheer about.
In a small business, it’s easy to focus only on the next deadline, the next challenge, or the next problem to solve. But, pausing to celebrate success can make a huge difference.
In the business I mentioned, most weeks, a sound echoed across the office and factory floor, instantly lifting spirits. It was a simple act, but powerful. It connected everyone, reminded us we were moving forward, and made success feel shared.
Celebrating achievements, no matter how small, has a ripple effect. It keeps communication open, reinforces motivation, and builds a culture where everyone feels part of the journey.
Engaged teams are more productive, more loyal, and more willing to go the extra mile when times get tough. In a small business, that extra spark is often the difference between surviving and thriving.
Here are a few practical ways you can celebrate success with your team:
Create a ritual – a bell, gong, or even a team cheer to mark milestones
Share wins openly – send a quick update email or shoutout in team meetings
Celebrate individuals – recognise team members by name for their contribution
Make it visible – use a 'success board' in the office or digital workspace
Bring in treats – coffee, cake, or a surprise lunch go a long way
Give time – let the team finish early after a big project
Capture moments – photos, videos, or social posts to share with a wider audience
Success is contagious. When you celebrate it, you fuel more of it.
Build these moments into your culture, and you’ll find your team more focussed, engaged, and motivated than ever.
I had a client fly the whole team to Paris for the weekend to celebrate 10 successful years in business and smashing through the £1M turnover mark.
The team will remember that experience, stay loyal and no doubt continue to push for even greater results.
How do you celebrate success with your team?