With record registrations already locked in, the countdown is on to Australia’s premier corporate B2B travel management event. We recently spoke to the event curators, cievents, and its Global Head of Marketing, Cate Carpenter, about how to get the most out of the day. Here are her Top 5 tips.
1. Hear from key industry experts
One of the most exciting aspects of Illuminate is the thought leadership provided by some of the industry’s most influential leaders and partners, who will be discussing everything from the future of hotels and the aviation sector to emerging travel trends and new technologies.
As Cate says, “These people know what they’re talking about and will provide amazing insights you won’t get anywhere else. This year’s keynote speakers include Virgin Australia CEO Paul Scurrah, Accor COO Simon McGrath, Digital Futurist Chris Riddell and Australian sporting legend John Eales. There will also be a number of panel discussions including how the NDC will shape the future of air buying, booking and travel, and what travel procurement and category trends are set to emerge”.
2. Gain valuable industry knowledge
Illuminate not only highlights the credibility and influence of FCTG’s corporate brands, it allows leading industry partners to showcase their own offerings. From keynote speakers and sponsor booths to discussion panels and unique audience participation activities, it offers delegates a valuable opportunity to increase their knowledge base.
“From a FCTG perspective, the event is really about giving back to our industry partners and our people. We have an in depth understanding of the market and the pain points that go along with it, so through the power of connections we’re able to cover all bases from a travel procurement perspective - whether it’s air, land or tech. Plus, the layers of interactivity on the day will not only provide a current overview of what’s happening in the industry, but motivate and inspire delegates to enhance their skills and be proud of their place in the travel sector”, says Cate.
3. Connect with new technologies
Delegates will hear updates on FCTG’s online booking tool, Savi, that was launched at the event last year plus more about the evolution of chatbot travel assistant app Sam:] and where it’s headed in the future. Attendees will also be encouraged to engage with the event’s own app where they can ask questions, share content, participate in live polling and exchange virtual business cards with contacts they meet on the day.
Plus, there’s a surprise in store for lovers of all things tech, but at this stage Cate’s not giving too much away … “All I will say is that it involves RFID technology, will offer a completely new level of interactivity and every delegate will be given their own personalised version on the day”
4. Network, network, network
This year’s event will be attended by delegates from a range of backgrounds including corporate customers, leading travel partners, key industry experts and travel and procurement professionals. Being among like-minded people allows attendees the opportunity to expand their networks, establish new relationships and be educated and inspired.
As Cate explains, “At these types of events, networking is crucial. Being able to connect with people in your own industry can be really beneficial and thought provoking and from a FCTG perspective, we not only encourage knowledge sharing, we ask everyone to be actively engaged. Delegates should be 100% in the moment and make the most of the opportunity, because Illuminate will be a memorable journey from registration right through to the fantastic After Party!”
5. Enjoy yourself
Aside from the amazing educational and up-skilling opportunities, this year’s event will also be great fun. From the announcement of this year’s Illuminators and the amazing travel prizes on offer to the not-to-be-missed After Party, it’s a fantastic opportunity to spend time with your peers, clients and of course, your new networking partners.
As Cate sums up,“Quite simply, delegates will get out of it what they put into it. So even though we’re all in the travel sector, in this instance, don’t be a passenger (pardon the pun!)”
T: +61 2 8062 4311
E: ILLUMINATE@CIEVENTS.COM.AU
W: www.illuminate19.com/
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