March

It's mid-May and many of us are in the middle of a jam-packed conference season.  Clearly, the industry has been clamoring to get back together in person as events new and old are filled with excellent content, action packed exhibitor floors, and incredible people.  It's no different for me and us at ACT.  We have been to state association conferences, large network gatherings, and the annual user group meetings.  We even launched a new ACT work group to focus on Emerging Technology Trends at NetVU Accelerate just last week.

While the travel and time away from our home and office can begin to wear on each of us (air travel seems to be a lot more effort than it once was), there is one thing I have genuinely noticed and would love to share a thought or two.  Sure, there is great new tech available to help agencies and carriers collaborate and bring value to customers.  Yes, we need to talk about what AI means for all of us.  And we need to keep pushing for greater connectivity and overall ease of doing business.  But what has impacted me the most is how much of the conversation is about people…all the people.  

It is not hyperbole to say that nearly every session I've attended, whether as a presenter, panelist, attendee, or hallway conversation has been influenced by people.  Whether we call it culture, change management, customer experience, or branding, it seems we are all recognizing that no meaningful change can be accomplished without an intentional and authentic focus on our employees, coworkers, customers, and business partners.   It was refreshing to be a part of.  In fact, it was rewarding and even moving to experience.

Thank you all for reading this issue and for your support of ACT and the entire industry.  As much as we all need to keep our eyes and efforts looking forward and into the future, as you have your next family discussion, team meeting, are standing in line for a flight, or are bumping through a crowed conference exhibit hall, I encourage all of us to stop and acknowledge the people in our personal and professional lives that make all of this possible anyway.

In kindness, Chris