Experience and connections remain valuable
Anyone who has worked for an employer for many years has not only built up specialist knowledge but also forged personal relationships. This network and the experience gained represent a value that should not simply be lost upon retirement. Companies that make a conscious effort to maintain contact with former employees show their appreciation whilst also creating a link between the past, present and future.
This exchange is also of great importance to the retired employees themselves. Long-serving colleagues have often become friends and companions. Getting-together events provide an opportunity to share memories, maintain contacts and, at the same time, find out how the company is developing. This reinforces the feeling of continuing to be part of a community even after one’s active working life has ended.
A sense of community in practice at OÖ Versicherung
OÖ Versicherung demonstrates what such a sense of connection can look like in practice. In addition to a dedicated Christmas party for its former employees, there is the annual summer get-together. Once again this year, around 100 pensioners gathered at the Gasthaus Niederberger in Leonding at the start of August.
Following a welcome address by Pensioners’ Association Chair Andrea Kronsteiner and Works Council Chair Peter Hörlesberger, Executive Director Robert Wasner – taking part for the first time – reported on the latest developments within the company. The large gathering spanned several generations: from recent retirees to a retired managing director, right up to the oldest participant, aged 99.
The bond does not end with the last day at work
“Our pensioners have made a decisive contribution over many years to making Oberösterreichische the company it is today. This sense of connection deserves to be valued – and for us, it does not end with the last day at work,” emphasises Executive Director Robert Wasner.
Whether it’s a Christmas party, a monthly get-together, joint outings or a summer get-together: Oberösterreichische demonstrates that corporate culture also means not losing sight of those people who have helped shape the company over many years.
We think it’s #absolutely brilliant that genuine appreciation has no expiry date and that former employees form a community that carries experience, memories and a sense of connection forward across generations.
