As an agency that for most of the time functions 100% remotely, we greatly value the opportunity to be together. Once a year, Referential consultants venture from near and far to spend a week with one another team building, presenting, and exchanging ideas. As our team is spread across all major time zones, this week being together truly puts into perspective the power of face-to-face interactions.

Referential’s diversity is one of our core strengths, and our team joins from every corner of the map - from the continental USA, Hawaii, the UK, to New Zealand. This global convergence brings with it a wealth of perspectives, ideas, and experiences that enrich our collective understanding of the industry we thrive in and the tools and best practices we use to do it.

The days are divided between client focused work, team building exercises and individual presentations on subjects determined beforehand. These vary greatly, and this year included survey results directly from current and former clients that looked at program expectations and branding; AI as it pertains to usage, reliability and best practices for our industry; high level overviews and deep dives into many of the RMS (reference management software) / CAP (customer advocacy platform) technologies that we work and partner with, and more.

We took time for events in and around the Orlando are where we were staying. For me, the highlight was a walking food tour that introduced some in our group to local cuisine we don’t usually see; if you haven’t had alligator before, I recommend it!

These all-hands events remind me of what it’s like to throw a wedding. Behind the scenes, there is so much work to be done in terms of planning, setup, coordination, and then it begins and, before you know it, it is over and done. This, though, is really a sign that you enjoyed the time spent. Fun times always pass so quickly.

As we return to our respective roles and locations, we carry with us the knowledge shared, as well as a renewed sense of purpose and connection. The bonds we forge during this gathering will continue to strengthen our collaborative efforts, propelling us towards greater achievements and milestones in the realm of customer marketing and advocacy.

Here’s to the power of annual gatherings - where distance dissolves and ideas flourish!