Team Building Trends & Networking News, April 2021

Another Virtual Summer for Corporate Groups

By Linda Whitlock

Things are looking better each day for getting back together in-person! But, we are not quite there yet…  Most corporate groups continue to plan for virtual or hybrid programs throughout the summer. It is encouraging to see companies starting to rebuild after major downsizing and restructuring last year — now is the time to capture the momentum and unify these new organizational structures. Team building can help! National sales meetings, new-hire training sessions, group outings, and other corporate gatherings are still happening and can all benefit from interactive fun! At CEI, we continue to innovate with our clients to meet their needs and deliver unique interactive events.   

Let’s connect and get innovative for your group this summer! 

~ Linda

Team Building Trends & Networking News, March 2021

We Want to Network!

By Linda Whitlock

It has been sooo long since we could shake hands, pat each other on the back, and network in person. Are we losing touch? Or are we more connected than ever? With social media at our fingertips, however, it is relatively simple to find friends and colleagues. Getting to know new people in a work setting is more challenging and takes a bit more effort. At CEI we like to provide gamification at meetings and events to help attendees network and bond. Zoom fatigue diminishes if you are actively engaged. Friendships develop in a fun atmosphere!

Team Building Trends & Networking News, February 2021

Enhancing Virtual Meetings and Incentive Trips

By Linda Whitlock

Planners are getting creative when it comes to presenting exciting entertainment for virtual destination meetings and incentive trips. After all, what can compare to actually spending a week in Costa Rica or Italy? How about tasting wines from around the world or a hands-on cooking class with a celebrity chef in your own home? Enjoy front-row seats to a sought-after concert or amazing magician. At CEI, we team up with planners to offer interactive team events to enhance the virtual travel experience. Check out two of our newest programs!

Team Building Trends & Network News, January 2021

Values, Purpose, and Passion

By Linda Whitlock

In this turbulent time it is easy to get swept up in the rhetoric of politics, covid, vaccines, violence, depression and more. It takes enormous effort to look beyond this and focus on what is really important — our values, purpose and passion. I am grateful to be part of a resilient industry and know that it will come back stronger than before. Proud to have forged the way for others and built an admirable business. And, most importantly, honored to have developed lasting partnership and friendships. Though we were shaken in 2020, our mission and values at CEI remain the same – we are your trusted partner for producing dynamic interactive and team experiences (virtually or in-person). And, we look forward to teaming up with you soon!

Team Building Trends: New Year Edition, December 2020

Goodbye 2020 – Hello 2021!

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone,   It has undoubtedly been a devastating year. As we reflect on the challenges we’ve witnessed within our industry, our community and our personal lives, we all feel the pain – and, at the same time, we (must) embrace the change. 2021 is within reach and already filled with hope and optimism. If we can hold on just a little longer… we will turn the page to a better time. 

And, we can’t wait to celebrate with you! Ring in the new year with an uplifting team experience. Help your team start the new year focused, energized and inspired with a daily quote and challenge, thought-provoking escape room or a virtual trip around the world. A description of one of our newest remote team experiences is listed below. Visit our website to learn more about all the activities that Corporate Event Interactive has to offer – or give us a call and we can develop something new just for you! 

As 2020 comes to a close we would like to thank our clients who have brightened our year. We couldn’t have done it without you! 

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season!

~ Linda

Team Building Trends: Holiday Edition, November 2020

Celebrate Virtually

By Linda Whitlock

Virtual holiday parties and year-end celebrations are happening! Employees, colleagues, members, students and families still want – or need – to connect and celebrate.

Show appreciation and let everyone know that they are a valuable part of the organization. Messages, calls or cards go a long way! And, there are many options for virtual gatherings. From chocolate and wine tastings to gift box deliveries and care package building to dance parties and game-sharing experiences, the possibilities are endless. If you need ideas, we are happy to share resources!

It isn’t what you say — it’s how you celebrate it!

(Remote) Team Building Trends & Networking News, October 2020

Virtual Holiday Team Experiences

By Linda Whitlock
Hello Everyone,
It’s hard to believe we’re already midway through October, and quickly transitioning into the Holiday season.
Our celebrations will certainly be different this year as companies and families gather virtually or in small groups. And, though we may not be able to break bread in person, we can still enjoy the season and be grateful for what we have.  

At CEI, we’ve developed a series of virtual team experiences that add joy to the festivities. We would love to partner with you to help spread cheer at your holiday party!
Celebrate the season with your team in a new way!

(Remote) Team Building Trends & Networking News, September 2020

Introducing iQuiz/iQuest CVB

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone,
Suddenly it’s September! Is it much different than April? Students are logging in to remote classes, trade shows have simulated exhibits, conferences choose from a variety of platforms to best present their educational sessions, corporate groups search for new experiences and the virtual craze continues.
With an eye on 2021, we are helping our industry partners stay connected with their clients in an entertaining and fun way. Using our innovative technology, we are developing programs that give DMCs (Destination Management Companies) and CVBs (Convention and Visitor Bureaus) a new means to show off their city I’m very excited to introduce iQuest CVB and iQuiz CVB – two virtual interactive alternatives to showcase your destination.

See your city and its possibilities come to life in a new and exciting way!

(Remote) Team Building Trends & Networking News, August 2020

Introducing Chicago Association Management

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone,
This month, I’d like to introduce you to CEI’s sister company, Chicago Association Management. CAM was founded in 2010 as a natural extension of Corporate Event Enterprises and offers a full range of professional management services to small and mid-sized professional and trade organizations.
Ed Graziano (my business partner for 25 years and husband for 23 years) and his team of talented administrators manage the day-to-day operations and strategic planning for more than a dozen organizations. We are grateful to have our CAM partnership as we navigate these uncertain times.

The CAM Difference: You Call The Shots, We Sweat The Details!

(Remote) Team Building Trends & Networking News, July 2020

Corporate Groups Earnestly Embrace Change

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone,
For most corporate groups, it appears that we may be interacting remotely for a bit longer. Kudos to planners who are finding new platforms, programs, and partners to produce their virtual experiences. Who knew we would all become tech experts overnight? Check out the  BizBash Virtual Event Guide – an excellent source of information!
Our CEI team is navigating the trend — creating more innovative activities to help keep your remote employees and attendees engaged. Whether you are looking for an energizing break in your virtual conference, an exciting activity to help boost morale or an inspiring way to give back to the community, our programs are completely customizable to your company and message that you would like to convey.