I wrote five years ago about my first day of work for Hallmark Cards on September 4, 1979. That post was on the 40th anniversary of my start date (i.e., “continuity date” in Hallmark-speak).
Today is the 45th anniversary of my start date. But this year I am thinking less about that first day of work and more about the twenty-seven years that followed. (I retired on December 31, 2006, now almost nineteen years ago.)
Most former Hallmark employees, when asked whether they miss working there, respond that they don’t necessarily miss the job, but they do miss the people.
And I am no exception. I am far happier as a part-time novelist than I was as an attorney or Human Resources director. But I miss seeing many—most—of my former colleagues regularly. (There are a few who will go unnamed . . . .)
I’ve been reminiscing about many of these people over the past few weeks. There are several reasons for my reflection:
- This 45th anniversary
- Knowledge that many of these people have left Kansas City, so distance becomes an obstacle to continued friendship.
- And, unfortunately, the recent deaths of a few individuals who meant a lot to me in the years I worked at Hallmark.
One of Hallmark’s core beliefs is
That the people of Hallmark are our company’s most valuable resource.
That core belief held true throughout the years I worked there, and I hope it still does.
But more than a valuable resource to me and to the company, the people I knew at Hallmark were my friends. We often worked through stressful times, but I knew I could count on those around me to help. (Again, except for the unnamed few . . . .)
The sometimes unfortunate reality of life is that we do not stand still in life. I have not stood still either. My colleagues and I—at least, most of us—were bound to grow apart as we moved and changed. But memories of my twenty-seven years at Hallmark come back frequently, and they usually bring a smile.
What do you think about when you remember your former work colleagues?
The people…and also the many traditions and icons that made it a very special place to work (I was there from 1991 – 2001). The Crown Room, incredible decorations at Holidays, scenes from the old version of Hallmark movies set up in the entrance CR, double D, artwork, noon news…but mostly the people that Hallmark attracted to its workforce. I’ve been gone 23 years and still have regular get togethers with very dear friends from Hallmark. I also wonder how many people still use the word ‘we’ when talking about Hallmark. Once a Hallmarker, always a Hallmarker. Thanks for sharing this!
Everything you say is true, Lori! Thanks for the comment.
Theresa
I’ve always loved Hallmark and so happy their home office is in our hometown. I read, “When You Care Enough: The Story of Hallmark Cards and Its Founder,” by Joyce C. Hall last year. It was a great book and I enjoyed learning how he grew his wonderful business and the history of Hallmark.
It’s always fun to run into people I’ve worked with over the years. Some I’m still friends with today.
Great post and thanks for sharing, Theresa.
Rosie
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Thanks for reading, Rosie. The Hallmark history is inspiring.
Theresa
I was there April 1974 – December 2015. Worked with great people, met fascinating personalities and made lifelong friends. Many, like you, are still on our Christmas card list.
And I hope you’ll be on our list for many years to come! Theresa
I don’t have any former work colleagues that I felt close to, but I was close to my bus buddy, Jackie, the woman I commuted with by public transit from the Park & Ride nearby. We worked in downtown Seattle, our high rise buildings were right next door to each other. We commuted in the morning, not the end of the day because my hours at the law firm tended to extend late into the day, but we became fast friends. I love those kinds of instant connections.
It is fun to make connections with people we see regularly, even when the contact begins randomly… Maybe especially when the contact is random to start with.
Theresa
Theresa,
You were always so thoughtful, intelligent and supportive of the work I was charged with on behalf of the company. We could hold forth for hours on the most, not all, crowd. It is the 35th anniversary of my continuity date in two weeks. Even better, I’ve been blessed with 35 years of corporate employment in all category leading businesses…and still killing it. Blessings to you for many more years of creativity. Miss your wisdom.
Thank you! Theresa
While the title of your post noted Hallmark, the question at the end didn’t, so I feel I can comment as a non-Hallmark person, but as a fan of your novels (and as a classmate so many years ago.)
My work career spanned three 11+ year company stints (including a company in India) and a couple shorter. My experiences with employees matches yours, I think. I retain warm relationships with several, good relationships with many, and yes, a very few perhaps less than warm but none grossly negative. Some continue to ask for advice and active help from this retired guy, and I “donate” when I can. I can say that I learned and grew with colleagues including reports, peers, and superiors and also I value and wouldn’t trade my experiences – they continue to contribute to what I am.
Myron, I’m glad you had good experiences with your employers and co-workers. It’s wonderful to stay in touch wold work friends and to provide your wisdom as appropriate. (I’m sure you gained lots of wisdom!)
Theresa