Ever wondered what your colleagues are into when they’re not coding up a storm or managing projects?
At our Skopje Office, the Brown Bag sessions have become the go-to spot for discovering just that…and more. These weekly lunchtime gatherings, organized by our very own Vladimir Conev, are where coworkers share their passions, from tech tricks to karate kicks.
A Little Bit of Everything, Every Week
The idea is simple: bring your lunch, grab a seat, and soak up some knowledge. These sessions aren’t your typical work meetings – think of them as TED Talks, but with fewer celebrities and more relatable faces from the office.
What’s on the menu? Well, it could be anything! Sure, we’re an IT company, so tech topics pop up often. But don’t be surprised if one week you’re learning about the latest coding framework, and the next, you’re deep in a discussion about skydiving techniques with a real parachute open in the Rest Area. Or why not the history of wristwatches.
Lunchtime with a Twist
These sessions are open to all, creating a lively hub in the Rest Area where presentations are shared on the big TV screen. No formal sign-up is needed – just bring your lunch and join in. The topics are as diverse as our team, with colleagues stepping up to share their passions and expertise.
The idea for these sessions came about during a casual brainstorming session. As Vladimir recalls, “One sunny day, our HR representative Kiko gathered us in a conference room to discuss new initiatives. I suggested the idea, we jotted it down on the whiteboard, and luckily, everyone liked it. We decided to give it a shot. Simple as that, believe it or not! 😊”
Why We Love It
So, what’s the big deal about these sessions? First off, they’re a fantastic way to break the ice and get to know your coworkers beyond the usual work talk. Plus, they’re a low-pressure platform for anyone wanting to practice their presentation skills. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone – learning something new while sharing lunch with colleagues.
Vladimir highlights the personal touch of these gatherings: “Sessions where colleagues share their hobbies, personal stories, or anecdotes are always memorable. Whenever there’s an engaging discussion at the end, I consider it a success.”
The Buzz Around the Office
While formal feedback hasn’t been a focus, the sessions have clearly struck a chord with the team. Vladimir admits, “Honestly, I haven’t asked for direct feedback. But since the sessions are going strong and colleagues are eager to participate, I guess we’re doing OK!”
And it’s not just about the topics; it’s about the connections being made. “People have realized just how cool their colleagues are”, Vladimir notes. The sessions have become a cornerstone of the office culture, making the work environment feel more like a community.
Challenges? What Challenges?
Despite the logistical hurdles one might expect, organizing these sessions has been smooth sailing. “The team here is incredibly supportive, so organizing these sessions is a walk in the park,” Vladimir says with a grin.
Looking Ahead
As for the future? Vladimir has big dreams: “I’d love to spread this ‘virus’ company-wide and encourage other offices to start their own sessions. If we can do it, so can everyone else!”
The Future of Brown Bag Sessions
For now, the format’s staying the same – casual, inclusive, and always interesting. “It’s rewarding to see colleagues jumping on board whenever I reach out,” Vladimir adds. “You guys rock, and I have immense respect for all of you!”
