After a few more snapshots, my tour was complete.
This cubicle area is where the chief level execs sit - it's decorated like a jungle.
I was invited to sit in my friend’s department until it was time for us to go out for lunch. The Zappos culture has become almost mythical in my mind so I was inwardly thrilled to have these informal moments to hang out and observe.
I heard the Beatles wafting from someone’s computer. I saw one employee shoot a projectile toy at another across the room. A few more got involved with this project. Simultaneously, there was a brainstorming discussion in motion to identify what was especially wonderful about a team member who wasn’t at her desk. Across a cubicle, I heard a woman’s voice say, “It’s 11:11; make a wish.” Two employees began teasing each other. One stood up, went to the rolling chair of the other while she was typing and began rolling her out of the department. A third employee intercepted the ousting. “Hey, we need her,” she said as she rolled her friend back. Amidst all of these shenanigans, work was getting done. Packages were being delivered and opened, people were answering emails and reports were getting analyzed. It was an absolute joy to witness this mix of playfulness and productivity.
I felt a longing to experience that kind of community and camaraderie in my business life. And I felt hopeful that Zappos is helping other companies create their own great cultures with their Zappos Insights program.
On my drive back to LA, I had time to reflect on the sights and sounds of Zappos. I left even more impressed with the company. I felt amazed that the very same people who were “playing” their way through the workday were building a multi-billion dollar enterprise.
At the end of the tour, we each posed for our "royalty" photo.