Our recent two-day Facilitator Conference in the UK was an amazing experience!
It was packed with valuable learning opportunities, meaningful networking, delicious food, inspiring speakers, and delightful surprises. There were so many highlights that it was tough to choose just one favourite moment, but here are a few standout memories that made the event unforgettable.
Jon Pittham, Managing Director of Karman Digital, took the stage to demystify the rapidly advancing field of artificial intelligence and its implications for SMEs.
He began by defining AI in simple terms:
"AI is the ability for computers to have human level thinking."
Jon highlighted the rise of natural language processing tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini, pointing out their transformative potential for small businesses. These technologies can assist with a variety of tasks, including project preparation, gathering data insights, and generating content, thereby streamlining operations and enhancing productivity.
He also noted that AI integration is becoming commonplace across various office platforms. Tools such as Grammarly, Microsoft Office, and Hubspot now feature AI capabilities that simplify complex tasks, enhance accuracy, and maximize resource efficiency, making it easier than ever for businesses to boost their operational efficiency.
Through his talk, Jon encouraged SME owners to explore and integrate these AI tools, emphasising that the strategic adoption of AI technology can be a game changer in managing and growing a business.
In a focused panel discussion, Bridget Petty, Director at JPS Limited, shared the intricate details of selling her business.
Guided by Dave McCartney, facilitator for Leeds, and with support from Simon Brayshaw of Dexterity Partners and her TAB Board, Bridget navigated the challenges of her business exit. This collaboration led to a successful sale, setting her on a path to retirement in the next couple of years.
Bridget talked about the critical role of support and honest feedback in helping boost her confidence and ensure the success of the sale.
Dave shared a key piece of advice for those considering a similar journey:
"Get your house in order, get the basics right and meet as many advisors as you can to secure the best possible deal."
Marcus Child, an acclaimed motivational speaker, came to speak to our facilitators on harnessing personal power to build resilience and achieve remarkable results.
Marcus started by sharing some worrying stats from the Gallup 'State of the Global Workplace 2023 Report' showing that only 10% of UK employees are 'engaged' and thriving at work!
He shared the importance of role-modelling the right behaviours and leading inclusively to navigate challenges. Marcus encouraged managing one’s emotional state to influence decision-making and positively reshape workplace dynamics.
He also highlighted the necessity of enhancing resilience by understanding its five key elements (State, Positivity, Ambition, Confidence and Energy), which would enable leaders to maintain peak performance under pressure.
Marcus stressed the importance of fostering a positive, resilient mindset amidst external challenges and setting bold, identity-driven goals to reinvigorate a sense of purpose within teams.
"You don't rise to your goals but instead you sink to your habits."
This session equipped our facilitators with practical strategies to inspire and lead with renewed vigour and confidence.
One of the highlights of our conference is the much-anticipated awards dinner, which celebrates our facilitators' outstanding dedication and success.
Our facilitators are central to our community; they not only bring out the best in each other but also continuously grow and achieve their own personal goals.
During the dinner, we recognised "champagne moments," which are significant personal achievements of our facilitators throughout the year. These moments reflect their personal strides and accomplishments.
In addition to these personal accolades, we presented awards that exemplify our core CALIBRE values: Community, Accountability, Lifelong Learning, Innovation, Respect, and Excellence. Each winner clearly demonstrated these values, earning heartfelt applause from everyone present.
A special highlight of the evening was awarded the "TBO of the Year" to Paul Winterbottom, the facilitator for Manchester West. Marking his 10th year with TAB, Paul has significantly influenced our network by leading an exemplary business and consistently putting the wider UK community at the forefront of his actions. His contributions have undeniably strengthened us all.
Congratulations to Paul and all our facilitators for their remarkable contributions and achievements!
During a candid discussion on stage, David Abbott, Facilitator for Thames Valley West, delved into a profound conversation with James Ross, Facilitator for North Chilterns and Oxford. James opened up about his TAB journey, from his initial steps to his current success.
James recounted the highs and lows he faced, from his earliest meetings with prospective members to now leading a thriving community with over 20 members and recently bringing on a partner to help manage the growth. He shared the strategies that propelled his success and the tangible results that these approaches have yielded.
The session proved immensely valuable, with attendees actively taking notes and discussing actionable insights they could implement in their own business operations. James's experience provided not just a roadmap but also inspiration for many looking to navigate their own paths to success.
“Buying a TAB franchise was one of my best decisions. It was a slow start, signing members, but the training and support from the community really helped through the tough times. My business is thriving, and it's such a rewarding role, both in terms of helping hard-pressed SME owners and financially."
Gareth Barber, the Director of WeareyourIT, led an enlightening session on cyber security. The session focused on the substantial risks businesses face from cyber threats today.
The discussion included an in-depth analysis of phishing emails and social engineering, supplemented by real-life case studies of businesses that suffered significant financial and data losses.
The session took an unexpected turn when Gareth revealed that a covert penetration test had been conducted among the attendees to gauge their alertness to phishing attacks. Despite a few falling for the simulated attacks, no real damage occurred. This exercise effectively underscored the critical need for constant vigilance.
Participants left the session armed with essential knowledge about recognising and responding to phishing attempts, significantly boosting their confidence in safeguarding their businesses against cyber threats.
The conference took an exhilarating turn. We were privileged to host two Maori tribespeople from Team Tactics, one of only two groups in the UK authorised by their Tribal Elders in New Zealand to use the Haka for team-building purposes.
Over the next 90 minutes, we were immersed in the rich history of the Haka, enriched by personal stories from the lead instructors' tribe. The highlight was learning the Ka Mate Haka, famously performed by the New Zealand All Blacks.
The session was not only educational but also incredibly engaging, leaving everyone energised and ready to bring some of the Haka's powerful movements and team spirit back to their own peer boards. The experience was a resounding success, adding a memorable and dynamic element to our conference.
To conclude our conference, we hosted a compelling panel discussion featuring three TAB members alongside their facilitators, delving into their transformative experiences with TAB and their peer boards.
The panel included Jon Bugg, Founder of We Are Doodlebug; Paul Goom, Director and Founder of Goom Electrical Ltd, Pete Wrathmell, Managing Director at Social and their respective facilitators, Guy Tweedale for Norwich, Martin Munro for West Hertfordshire, and Paul Winterbottom for Manchester West.
The discussion centred on their personal and business visions, exploring the nature of these visions, the challenges encountered along the way, and how utilising StratPro was instrumental in advancing their business objectives. The panellists shared insightful stories about the support and guidance they received, which not only helped them navigate their entrepreneurial journeys but also achieve substantial growth.
The session was highly educational and left everyone in attendance inspired and equipped with new perspectives on overcoming business challenges and enhancing personal development.
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We can't wait until next year when we can do it all again!
If the roundup of our annual facilitators has inspired you and you're considering joining a network that promotes shared growth and mutual support, contact us today to learn more about becoming part of The Alternative Board franchise.