Michael Scott Leaves The Office during Administrative Professionals Week
by Jenny Scala on April 21, 2011 at 9:46 amOne of my favorite TV shows is NBC’s The Office. It’s hard to believe April 28 is Steve Carrell’s final episode. This milestone event of Scranton Branch Manager Michael Scott (Carrell) leaving Dunder Mifflin, Inc., coincides with one of the country’s largest workplace observances.
Administrative Professionals Week is April 24-30, and Administrative Professionals Day is Wednesday, April 27. The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), the organization sponsoring the observance, recommends: “For Administrative Professionals Day 2011, we’re veering away from the traditional celebration of the day which is centered on administrative professionals. The recession has hit everyone in the office. Downsizing has forced all of us to pull together and work harder, not just the administrative professionals in the workplace. IAAP recognizes the hard work and sacrifice from everyone. This year, celebrate all office professionals.”
It’s important to express gratitude, especially to the people you work with each and every single day, such as the assistant who screens your calls and keeps you on schedule, the office manager who orders your coffee and supplies, the IT guy who configures your computer and restocks toner, and the staffer who cleans out the fridge and is always willing to pitch in and work late.
Flowers are a meaningful gift, even in the workplace. Giving flowers is a loud, proud, sophisticated way of saying ‘I appreciate all you do.’ They’re a great way to build a strong, lasting professional relationship and maintain good morale.
Flowers and plants are more than mere embellishments. A Texas A&M University study shows that people whose workplace environments include flowers and plants demonstrate more creativity and generate better ideas. The researchers credit the benefits to the boost in moods that flowers and plants inspire.
Thank a co-worker who has been supportive throughout the year with a bunch of multi-colored tulips or other flowers that will brighten up the traditionally drab neutral office walls. Flowers in shades of red convey motivation, courage and power. An up-shooting floral arrangement in rich orange and fuchsia exudes positivity. A dish garden, a collection of blooming and green plants, brings the beauty and serenity of nature indoors. If you’re not sure what to send, ask your florist for recommendations.
If you’re unsure how to commemorate Administrative Professionals Week, check out our tips and suggested card messages on www.aboutflowers.com.
The Office recognized the observance last year in its sixth season, 22nd episode, Andy (Ed Helms) tells the camera: “It’s Secretary’s Day. And, it is Erin and mine’s three-week anniversary. So, perfect storm! For a romantic gesture. Wanted the whole office to remember it’s Secretary’s Day. I sent an email blast, a text blast. A good old-fashioned talk blast. I sent a snail mail blast a week ago. And, a stern reminder via fax at seven o’clock this morning. So people better step up. And appreciate the … out of Erin. I do.” Andy even meets with Michael to advise him on how recognize Erin (Ellie Kemper). Here, you can watch a clip from The Office’s “Secretary’s Day” episode.
Maybe this year Andy will send Michael a memo about recognizing all office professionals. Wouldn’t that be fun for one of Carell’s last two appearances on April 21 or April 28.
How does your office celebrate Administrative Professionals Week? Have you ever received flowers?
If you get flowers this year, we want to see. Post your Administrative Professionals Week flowers on our Facebook page.
Great idea to celebrate all office professionals…if anyone from my office reads this, I’d like orange gerbera daisies please!
Who doesn’t like flowers? Communists, that’s who.
What a wonderful reminder to thank and acknowledge the unsung heroes in an organization — the staff. Those folks “behind the scenes” so to speak, who contribute to the success of those “in front of the camera” – so that businesses can prosper. Thanks for the insightful article, Ms. Scala.
If yesterday’s gorgeous weather and blooming flowers outside had anything to do with the happy and smiling coworkers around the office yesterday like I speculate it did, this post hits the nail on the head…why wait for a sunny 75 degree day when you can bring those smiles to the office with bright flowers for that hardworking teammate! I love the idea mentioned in the blog about a plant too…what a great way to keep that appreciative gesture around for months (or ‘years’ for those with a green thumb!) to come!
There is just something extra-classy about flowers as a way of being recognized. They don’t last forever, so they’re a treat, yet they last long enough to be reminded every time you look at them, “Oh yeah … I’m special!”
I love getting flowers at work. It definitely make you feel special. My office is in a high traffic area so everyone who passes by smiles, sharing in the fun. They’re a great conversation starter!
Admin/office work is definitely an under-appreciated field. I kind of compare it to being a mom, in a way. They do all the dirty work most people don’t even want to do for themselves let alone for multiple people. So it really is important, even if it’s just for a day, to recognize and acknowledge all of the hard work they do. And I think a gift of flowers is the classiest way to go.
What a great reminder that sending flowers can be the perfect way to say Thank You!
I completely agree that flowers cheer up the office and promote creativity. Maybe that is why my boss surrounds the publications department with flowers and plants. Hopefully she will bring more in next week!
I know when I see flowers they always make me smile and feel really good. It’s even better when I’m on the receiving end of those flowers so I know not only will my AA appreciate them but everyone in the office will too.
My office manager loves flowers and the office just looks better with some extra colorful foliage. It’s win-win.
If you really think about it, who do you interact with most during the course of your day? You walk in, the secretary/receptionist is there. You get a call — who transfers it? When you leave, who do you usually see last? Probably the person at the front desk.
Why not show some appreciation for what they do with flowers during that week? Great post Jenny!
Flowers increase productivity and help build relationships.
I love the idea of bringing flowers in for the entire office to enjoy. Sparking creativity is an added bonus!
As a former admin, I think it is an incredibly nice gesture to make during Admin Week. There’s nothing like flowers to say “i appreciate all you do, you rock.”
There is something so special about getting a call from the receptionist letting you know there is a bouquet of flowers waiting for you.
I enjoy the scent and beauty of flowers at my desk…especially when my co-workers stop by to admire them or smell them. “Stop and smell roses,” it makes the day brighter!
I’ll send an email blast, a text blast, a good old-fashioned talk blast, a snail mail blast and a stern reminder via fax to all my friends reminding them to buy flowers. Nice post!
Fresh flowers are a great way to liven up the office! And who doesn’t enjoy receiving them?!
Flowers are just about the only gift that keep giving all Administrative Professionals Week long! Thanks Jenny for reminding me to show my gratitude to my coworkers.
Great reminder to appreciate all staff members in the office. Flowers put a smile on your face that will last for days.
Flowers for Administrative Professionals Week? That’s what she said. (Insert Michael Scott snicker here.)
This is such a great way to thank those who work so hard and do so much for the companies they work for.
What a wonderful way to make someone’s day!!
Thanks for the reminder. I’m placing my orders now.
Getting flowers definitely brings a smile to my face. 🙂
What a great post! I want to send flowers to everyone I know now!
Live plants – That’s the way to go. Celebrate everyone and freshen the indoor air for…. as long as you can keep the plant thriving! 🙂
Really good post Jenny. I would like it if someone gave me a peony. No, wait, a pony.