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.

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

From the Expert

Summer! Undoubtedly the favorite season for Chicagoans as everyone gets outside to play. Even with social distancing in place, being outside is a great stress-reliever and can provide mental clarity after being shut in place for so long.  
Innovative activities and programs are popping up all over – yoga in the (virtual) park, online concerts, farmers markets, drive-in movies! Even summer camps and festivals are being reimagined to help us come alive in the summer.  
Another favorite summer experience is Adventure Hunts. Whether remote, in-person with small groups, or a hybrid – these engaging and enlightening activities continue to be popular options for corporate groups and new student orientation.  
It is exciting to see how organizations are adapting to create innovative events to free our summer spirit! How will you spend your summer this year?
Let’s connect

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

From the Expert

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone!
For many of us, our new daily routine includes video conference meetings, schooling our kids, sharing photos from our WFH offices and ordering take-out. Now is the time to think about next steps!
How will you navigate through this?
What are your professional goals and objectives?
What are your biggest challenges?
Who can you depend on for support and information?
Each day I work to answer these questions for myself and I am grateful to be part of a progressive and compassionate industry with a vision! Our community is coming together to discuss what really matters, best practices and how to navigate our now reality.
Would you like to join us?
Let’s connect

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

Remote Team & CSR Experiences

By Linda Whitlock

Hello Everyone,It is difficult to comprehend our new world — very surreal! Like many of you, our events disappeared virtually overnight. We had to change our way of thinking about “interactive events” and innovate.
Staying true to our company mission, we’ve developed a series of Remote Team & CSR Experiences to keep employees motivated, inspired and connected — all without leaving the comfort and safety of home.
I hope that we can help bring some joy and ‘interaction’ to your team during this time.
Contact usto find out more.

Team Building Trends & Networking News, February 2020

Corporate Social Responsibility: Why & How to Give Back

By Linda Whitlock
Practicing Corporate Social Responsibility is essential for today’s business owners. When companies are aware of the way their business practices affect both their stakeholders and the general public, this practice is valued as corporate citizenship.
Here is the Why:
In today’s media climate, customers, clients and employees are paying more attention to a company’s integrity and culture.Providing CSR opportunities at your event helps to foster a positive corporate image and promotes loyalty both internally, between employees and the company, and externally, between the company and its patronage.
Here is the How:
The following should considered to determine the ideal way to give back at your event.Amount of time you’d like to spend on your eventNumber of participants you’d like to involveDesired location for your eventSpecified budget for your eventSelected cause, corporate alignment, or local need
Facilitate anything from cleaning up a beach or park toparticipating in a combination team-building, care-package event!
Here Is How Your Company Can Execute a Rewarding CSR Event:
Send out pre-event info to your employees to garner excitement. Engage employees physically and mentally with contests that foster friendly competition.Invite a representative from the benefiting charity to speak.End with a photo opp of the team showcasing what they accomplished.Hire a team building company to bring your event to life!