Accounts, Adventure & Achievement

?? Bonjour! ???? This week’s Zeitgeist News is brought to you by Luc Chomé , our dynamic Account Manager. Hailing from Belgium and armed with a wealth of international experience, Luc brings you the latest insights into what moves and shakes all things digital. ????

Keeping up with Digital?

Digital competition is tough, we know. There is only so much you can do to grasp everyone’s attention and leave behind the “wow, this was really cool” feeling. So, we asked the #ZNetwork how you can create impact and make your voice heard.

In short: Staying sharp, flexible, and ready to challenge your preconceptions is crucial. ?

Listen below for more tips from Philip Weiss, Jesús Azogue and Evangelia Kyrkou ??

The Importance of Proximity?

Our very own Luc Chomé shared his thoughts on the importance of proximity when building relationships in the digital world. To truly connect with your audience, especially in public affairs, you need to get close, both literally and metaphorically.

But why does proximity matter??

Better Understanding: Being close lets you understand your audience’s needs and behavior and allows you to adjust your approach.?

Building Trust: Trust comes from being familiar. Regular and direct engagement can build?trust over time.?

Cutting Through the Layers: Fewer layers mean better connections. Physical, technological, or ideological distances make it harder to connect and influence.?

#ZNLive with Marco Ricorda Today!?

Join us today at 2 PM for a chat with Marco Ricorda . We'll discuss how communication works in the EU Institutions and Think tanks, all about building influence and impact, and how to leverage social media for EU outreach. ?

#ClientNews?

We're excited to share the hero visual designed for the Department of Social Rights of the Council of Europe and their High-Level Conference on the European Social Charter, happening on July 4, 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania. This design celebrates the conference itself, the 75th anniversary of the Council of Europe, and embodies the spirit of social justice across Europe. It was created by Natalia Danilov and Luca Sartore on ZN’s side, in collaboration with The Social Rights Department at the Council of Europe.?

Join us in promoting social rights and inclusion, and learn more about the conference here.?

ZN proudly supports initiatives that drive European and global social change. We are very grateful for the chance to provide the Council of Europe ’s Department of Social Rights, with our graphic design expertise in this opportunity.?

#ZNLive with Nicholas Bruneau #Episode 382?

The Art of Breaking Through the Silos ????

Broadcasting from Lisbon and Brussels, Philip Weiss and Jesús Azogue sat down with Nicholas Bruneau , a communication expert and author of "Engage with Impact" in the latest episode of #ZNLive. ??

?? Nicholas shared his take on how communication is transforming at the UN, underlining the role of perseverance. He highlighted the need to break through the "silos" – different teams within one organization that often do not communicate together. One solution is to involve comms teams in policy discussions and celebrate small wins to showcase the impact of strategic communication efforts.

?? Advice for Aspiring Communicators:??

Nicholas underscored the importance of continuous learning and staying up to date with new tools and trends, and encouraged young professionals to seek certifications and training opportunities.?

?? Recommendations:??

??Nicholas' podcast pick: AI Explored by Social Media Examiner - Insights on practical AI applications in digital marketing and SoMe Insights by Dante Licona and Matthias Lufkens - Social media strategies for international organizations.

??Nicholas' top book picks: The Art of Explanation by Ros Atkins - Mastering clear and effective communication & Engage with Impact - his book on transforming digital communication for social impact.

Philip's suggestion: Bestinbrussels.eu - Guide to top services and experts in Brussels.

Jesús' favourite of the week: The Chopin Project by ólafur Arnalds & Alice Sara Ott.

Missed this week's episode of #ZNLive? Watch now.

In Focus?

EU's Hottest Advocacy Tips ?

Big cheers to everyone who made it to our recent session, 'Digital Policy Advocacy in the EU,' led by the dynamic duo, Senior Account Manager & Strategic Advisor Marsela Ivanova and Senior Account Director Irem Turkay Ates . Not only was it the hottest day of the year in Brussels so far, but we also turned up the heat in the room with some fiery digital advocacy tips!?

Why Digital Advocacy Matters:?

?? Be where your audience is: Decision-makers are more active on digital platforms than ever. Ensure your messages reach them by being present in these spaces.??

?? Competitive edge: Your competitors are online, engaging your audience with diverse messages. Make sure your voice is heard.?

?? Visual impact: A picture says a thousand words, right? Use diverse digital content for more effective communication, as images are understood faster than long texts.?

Quick Wins:?

? Research where newly elected MEPs are most active online. Tailor your messages and strategies accordingly.?

? Develop a strong, recognizable digital presence with a compelling brand story.?

? Equip your advocacy campaign with the necessary tools and digital infrastructure.?

? Train your team to adapt to new trends and frameworks, focusing on creating brand ambassadors.?

? Produce engaging content that supports your advocacy program using diverse formats.?

Big thanks and a huge shout-out to all our participants and our partner ECPA.??

Booth Magic at #FoodFuture ?

Our team had so much fun at FoodDrinkEurope ’s #FoodFuture IdeasFest yesterday!

Wonderful to see Diageo ’s multi-sensory non-alcoholic workshop come to life.

We’re grateful to our clients for trusting us with this engaging and creative project! ??

Events: Lead Advocacy with AI?

Curious how AI can elevate your advocacy efforts? Join Sebastián Rodríguez and the european campaign playbook playbook for a quick and free online session introducing "AI for Advocacy: The Playbook" training.?

This session is perfect for communication professionals working in EU affairs, advocacy, and politics, as well as anyone interested in how AI can impact campaigning. By joining, you will get information on how the AI training is structured, how you can join, and all the other nitty-gritty details you might want to know.?

Secure your spot by registering here. You'll receive all the details to join online.?

Become an EU Influencer: Top Tips from the Pros?

Wanna be the cool kid in town and rock social media?? Packed with practical tips from top EU influencers and movers and shakers, our new e-book is your go-to guide.??

Learn how to adapt to different platforms, craft messages that hit home, and stay relevant in the ever-changing digital world. Whether you’re a journalist, lobbyist, or just keen to boost your online presence, these insights are gold.?

Stay #OneStepAhead and download you free copy here!?

Digital News and Trends?

Gen Z's Digital Habits surprise us once again?

Gen Z approaches the digital world with a unique strategy - they prioritize social validation over traditional credibility of information. Instead of diving deep into articles, they skim headlines and seek peer reactions in comments sections. Influencers play a crucial role in shaping their worldview, promoting loyalty and trust among young users. This trend highlights a shift towards social-driven information consumption, where personal relevance and peer approval take precedence over established sources. Can you relate? Read more here.?

Meet the #ZNetwork

Luc Chomé is an Account Manager at ZN, with a Master’s degree in Politics and International Relations from Université catholique de Louvain. He has lived in the USA, Spain, Bosnia, Ireland, and Ivory Coast, and is a former ultimate frisbee player. Luc enjoys chess, reading, hiking famous trails, and is a part-time superhero father of two. He also claims to make the world's best Spaghetti Bolognese—though his kids might disagree!?

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