Monique Rochard - Marine #DESIGNtoCHANGE #IMEX24 with Ruud Janssen onsite at #IMEX24 on the #DESIGNtoCHANGE PODcast

Summary

In this #DESIGN to CHANGE podcast at IMEX Frankfurt 2024, Monique Rochard - Marine CMM CMP CTSM , (https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/moniquerochard/ ) shares her insights with Ruud Janssen, DES, CMM (https://www.dhirubhai.net/in/ruudwjanssen/ ) on the importance of intentional connection in designing memorable event experiences. As the head of global travel, meetings, and events at Cordis (https://www.dhirubhai.net/company/cordis/about/ ) , she emphasizes the power of face-to-face interactions for building relationships and influencing change. Monique discusses her strategic approach to travel, avoiding third-party vendors to foster direct partnerships, and leveraging personal connections for business success. She highlights the distinction between incentives and rewards, advocating for curated experiences that inspire and motivate. Reflecting on the demands of the event industry, Monique urges support and recognition for event professionals' often unseen hard work and stresses the significance of passion in one's career. She also calls for openness in sharing knowledge and networks within the industry. Looking forward to the future, Monique commits to returning to the podcast in a year to reflect on the changes and impact she's made.

#DESIGNtoCHANGE - Live PODcast recording with special guests onsite at #IMEX24 - Live from IMEX Frankfurt - An open conversation with the creators of #EventCanvas and their new book DESIGN toCHANGE, elevating your ability to look and act beyond the now. This onsite series features spontaneous conversations with #IMEX24 visitors, speakers, Event Design Enthusiasts and Certified Event Designers (CED'ers) as well as team members of the Event Design Collective with commentary by the authors Ruud Janssen, DES, CMM and Roel Frissen . Curious questions to learn from real life current event design experiences to help Event Canvas practitioners elevate DESIGN conversations. Share your experiences and the challenges you face in designing for change. We grow in the direction of the questions we ask, so let's start the conversation at IMEX.

Find out more at DESIGNtoCHANGE.online

?? Embracing Educational Opportunities at Conferences

Attending conferences is not just about networking but also about learning and finding inspiration for future events, which can bring value back to one's company.

"I think there’s a big miss in a lot of incentives because they are more rewards, something that you could easily just give."

??? Intentional Change and Influence

Driving change requires purposeful action and leveraging influence through asking the right questions and providing meaningful answers, rather than leaving outcomes to chance.

"If you really want to affect change, it has to be purposeful, in my opinion, at least change to the direction that you’re thinking of. I would want to drive that change."

?? The Importance of Continuous Learning

Engaging with like-minded individuals in energizing environments can inspire a desire for continuous learning and professional growth, emphasizing the value of educational experiences.

"I feel more inspired, especially if you’re with like-minded people. It really does trigger something where you just want to keep learning."

?? Targeted Incentive Programs vs. General Rewards

Incentive trips designed to offer unique experiences that cannot be easily replicated are more effective at motivating behavior than generic rewards.

"When I think of incentives, I think of building and designing an experience that you cannot do on your own."

?? Leveraging Personal Connections in Business

Nurturing personal relationships with industry peers and suppliers can transcend purely business interactions, leading to more transparent and effective partnerships.

"There’s an energization, if that’s a word. I feel more inspired, especially if you’re with like-minded people."

?? Reflective Decision-Making for Event Planners

Event planning requires tough decision-making and a focus on what is right and best at the moment, often necessitating a thick skin and a passion for the work.

"Sometimes we just need that extra support, that thank you, that smile, you know, it goes a long way."

?? The Power of In-Person Connections

Building relationships through face-to-face interactions is crucial for effective partnership and trust-building in the event industry, as it can lead to more authentic and productive collaborations.

"Part of building relationships is making those connections in person. There’s a magic that happens when you’re face to face, even if it’s for ten minutes."

?? Navigating Work-Life Balance in a Demanding Industry

Event professionals must navigate the challenge of being always 'on' and responsive while also recognizing the need for rest and personal well-being.

"The challenge for me is I’m always on. I’m always, you know, responsive. I’m always thinking, and I’m not thinking about me. I’m thinking about everybody else."

?? The Value of Non-Business Communication

Keeping in touch with industry contacts outside of formal business contexts can strengthen relationships and foster a sense of genuine care and connection.

"I keep in touch. I text people, whether it’s on social media or WhatsApp. I am one of those people who after a month, I will just send a random text, hey, how’s it going?"

?? Strategic Event Design for Maximum Impact

Curating unique, memorable experiences through event design can have a significant impact on attendees, inspiring them and potentially leading to increased productivity and loyalty.

"That magic helps me realize, oh my gosh, I could do this. If I could bottle this and create this and design an event, it will be amazing and it will end up incentivizing my customers."

Topic highlights include:

Certification and Continuous Learning in Event Planning

Maximizing Event Impact and Influence

Designing Unforgettable Experiences

Transitioning Trust Within Teams

Importance of Face-to-Face Meetings

Strategies for Maintaining Industry Connections

Intrinsic Value of Personal Interactions

Power of Connection in Events

Emotional Significance of Incentive Trips

Travel Strategies and Cultural Experiences

Role of Trust in Professional Relationships

The Value of Conferences for Meeting Professionals

The Art and Science of Event Design

Leveraging Personal Connections for Business Outcomes

Balancing Wellness with Professional Demands