My very first BIBA (spent staffing the stand and handing out leaflets) was held in sunny Brighton, where the evening’s entertainment was enjoyed on the pier with a portion of fish and chips. Now having worked in the insurance industry for over three decades, I’ve attended pretty much every BIBA since; including a very memorable one in London where a fire drill had everyone trying to work out who insured the building. Luckily, there was no fire, just a dodgy toaster!
Fast forward to 2021 and I’m no longer handing out the leaflets; instead, I’m attending BIBA’s first ever virtual conference.
We all missed out on a lot of things last year, and BIBA was definitely a big one for me! Spring just isn’t the same without those two days in the middle of May when the sun always seems to be shining and the whole of the insurance industry comes together to connect.
Although it’ll be different this year, I’m really looking forward to welcoming BIBA back (from the comfort of my own home).
Connection is key
For me, regardless of location, the most important part of BIBA is connecting with people. I love the fast-paced environment and the feeling that anything is possible. It must be the only place on earth where three months’ worth of meetings can take place in just two days.
People come to BIBA with a purpose, to talk business, and this year is no different. The best thing about having the whole industry together at once is the results; lots of short, sharp, meaningful meetings that really drive action. Being at BIBA, you just get stuff done, and this year I’m looking forward to the heightened organisation it offers! There’s less chance for distraction and no time spent travelling, getting lost amongst the stands or power walking from one meeting to the next. Although I’ll miss those opportunistic meetings that a physical BIBA often provides, I’m looking forward to being able to really maximise my time at this year's virtual event.
Strengthening resilience
The theme of this years’ BIBA conference is very fitting with the events of the past 13 months. Across the world people, businesses, and industries have needed to find new ways to strengthen their resilience, and our industry is certainly no different. At HSB we’ve had to adapt our operations and embrace the shift in how we interact with brokers and customers. Undoubtedly the advancements in technology have really opened up new ways to connect and interact, which has made my job so much easier. And despite the circumstances that have accelerated this shift, the benefit of being able to connect with people regardless of their geographical location, has been great.
Looking to the future, how we can better connect with and serve our customers is key to success. And what better place to start, than BIBA? See you there!
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