TOO HEAVY TO FLY: Why WestJet Abandoning Iconic April Fools' Jokes is No Laughing Matter for Staff or Fliers.

As a consultant specializing in organizational culture and leadership coaching, I am always interested in how companies shape their leadership and employee experience. On April 1st, WestJet made a?potentially flawed?decision that caught my attention and has had me thinking all month long.

On April 1st, 2023, WestJet abandoned its annual April Fools' Day joke and instead stated responsibility, renewing its commitment to its customers, making changes to its fleet and schedule, investing in technology, and improving processes for staff and guests. While these are all crucial commitments, what stood out to me was the decision to forgo their hilarious April Fools' tradition that so many look forward to.

While addressing operational and customer service issues is necessary, I ferociously believe humour and lightheartedness are assets for successful change, enhancing the overall customer experience, building customer resilience, and developing camaraderie between staff.

Studies have shown that allowing employees to have fun leads to increased engagement, productivity, and retention. A positive and engaging workplace culture can lead to higher employee engagement and retention levels.

This decision is counterproductive to their stated strategic aims during a post covid recovery.

In my full blog post,?I go deeper into the dilemma WestJet has created, pitting fun against service. I will share the CEO letter and provide specific examples of how organizations maintain a fun culture without compromising their commitment to improvement or serving their clients or customers. Additionally, I will offer insights and advice for leaders who are looking to cultivate a workplace culture that is both enjoyable and productive.

As a bonus,?I will be making several tools available exclusively for Sweet on Leadership Newsletter Subscribers. These tools will include:

• 5 strategies for balancing fun culture with a service commitment,
• 11 Levity Conversation Starters to help you foster a more relaxed and engaging workplace environment,
• Leadership Self-Assessment to gauge your current level of Levity Skill.

By signing up for my newsletter, you will have access to these valuable resources and much more.

So, if you're looking to improve your workplace culture, enhance employee engagement and retention, and have a bit of fun along the way, check out the entire blog post and subscribe to my newsletter today! Don't miss out on these valuable tools and insights that can help take your organization to the next level.