Half a month passed quickly, and the New Year was approaching.
That day, Sabrina finished her report and asked, "Miss Jones, the HR department wants to know if this year's annual party will be held the same way as last year."
"How did they do it last year?" Deanna asked instinctively.
After all, she had never attended the company's annual party and could only refer to previous practices.
Sabrina shared what she knew. "From what I understand, last year Kamden took everyone to a hotel for a meal and then to a club for the night. That was it."
Hearing this, Deanna frowned, not satisfied with the plan.
She thought for a moment and said, "Let me think about it. Tell the HR department I'll give them an answer tomorrow."
Sabrina nodded and left.
That evening, Deanna consulted Lance about it. "How did your company usually hold the annual dinner?"
"Why are you asking about this suddenly?" Lance looked at her curiously.
Deanna explained, "Today, HR asked Sabrina to ask me about the arrangements for the annual dinner. I heard about their previous practices and felt something was off."
She then described Vortex Technology's past annual dinners.
After listening, Lance understood Deanna's concerns and smiled. "The fact that you sense something is off shows you've made significant progress in business management."
He paused and then continued without needing further prompting from Deanna. "The annual dinner signifies reunion for families, but in business, it has another meaning: strengthening employees' sense of belonging to the company. So if Vortex Technology's dinner was just eating and playing, it's indeed not right. How about this? This year, your company's annual dinner will be held together with Mercer Group's. Let your HR learn our processes, and next year you can hold it independently."
Deanna knew Lance wanted to help her, so she naturally didn't refuse.
Moreover, learning from Mercer Group's corporate culture was a rare opportunity for both her and Vortex Technology.
...
In the blink of an eye, the day of the joint annual dinner for the two companies arrived.
The banquet was held at a five-star hotel owned by Mercer Group.
Since it was a joint event, the atmosphere was lively.
The large banquet hall had dozens of tables, all filled with people.
Everyone was chatting and laughing, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
At 7:30 PM, the banquet officially began.
A handsome host took the stage to liven up the atmosphere. "Welcome everyone to tonight's annual dinner jointly hosted by Mercer Group and Vortex Technology... Now let's welcome our representatives from Mercer Group and Vortex Technology, Mr. Mercer and Miss Jones!"
As these words fell, applause erupted from the crowd.
Deanna, holding Lance's arm, slowly walked from backstage to the stage amid the applause.
Seeing them, the employees' applause grew even more enthusiastic.
Soon, under Xavier's signal, they quieted down.
It was then that Lance began his speech.
"Happy New Year, everyone."
"Happy New Year to the President and Missus! Wishing you a long and happy life together!"
The crowd shouted their blessings from below.
Hearing these words, Lance's originally stern features softened.
Beside him, Deanna blushed slightly from the cheers.
"Thank you all for your blessings. We will indeed be happy together forever," Lance said, looking tenderly at Deanna beside him.
Mercer Group employees were amazed to see their usually stern president so gentle but dared not tease him.
After a brief speech, the banquet officially began.
Lance led Deanna off the stage but didn't leave immediately.
There were activities after dinner that would allow Deanna to gain deeper insights into corporate culture.
They sat at a table below the stage, occasionally being toasted by senior management.
After handling some toasts, Lance let Xavier take over.
About an hour later, when most people had finished eating, the host reappeared to announce the start of games and performances.
The performances were organized by company employees and judged by everyone to determine the top three acts, which would receive rewards.
The rewards were generous: first prize was a city apartment, second prize a luxury car worth a million dollars, and third prize fifty thousand dollars in cash.
Besides performances, there were also small games and other activities.
But every activity centered around company culture.
After watching everything, Deanna felt she had gained a lot of insights.
Later that night, she leaned her head on Lance's shoulder and sighed. "After tonight, I finally understand why people say Mercer Group employees are hard to poach. With such a corporate culture and generous year-end bonuses, not many companies can match that."
Lance chuckled softly at her words and said, "People are content when their needs are met. Employees work not only for a living but also for their dreams. If you meet these two needs, they will repay you well."