IN a bid to create greater levels of engagement among its more than 2,500 employees, the National Commercial Bank (NCB), last December, introduced a six-month internal sales campaign, dubbed "Fast Lane to London", which saw 11 staff members copping all-expense paid trips for two to the London 2012 Olympics.

"At NCB, we highly value our staff and are always seeking ways to boost morale," said Sheree Martin, NCB General Manager - Marketing Communication and Service Delivery.

She noted that she and her team sought to creatively leverage its support of the Jamaica Olympic Association by "aligning the intrinsic competitive spirit of the Olympics with the staff's unyielding efforts to garner more sales".

Awarded in June, the top-performing staff received fully paid airfare, accommodation and tickets to see the Games. The 11 runners-up within the competition were awarded the sleek, new iPad 3.

"NCB is a long-time partner and supporter of Jamaica's track and field programmes. Indeed, as the nation's preferred financial services provider, we draw inspiration from the dedication, training and discipline that these athletes embody," said NCB Sponsorship and Promotions Manager Julian Patrick.

He noted that winners had to hit a certain percentage of their sales targets to qualify, while other criteria were set for non-sales staffers who wished to participate.

Winner, Business Development Representative Tracy-Ann Reboe, said the competition was well worth her time, admitting that the company's robust referral programme helped her to be named among those en route to London.

"Delivering excellent service and building an excellent relationship with current customers and team members; this encouraged clients to do repeat business with us and also encouraged my team members to provide great support. That was my strategy to be among those heading to London," Reboe said.