By leveraging connectional intelligence, promo pros can: • Identify strategic partnerships to co-create unique offerings with suppliers and clients. • Harness data-driven insights to personalize recommendations and create meaningful brand experiences. • Leverage storytelling and client testimonials to showcase the impact of branded products and build trust. “The best promotional product professionals don’t just sell,” Dhawan says. “They connect, collaborate and create solutions that leave a lasting impact.” In her keynote session, Dhawan will shift the notion of collaboration from more meetings and emails to productive engagement that improves speed and quality of service, increases subject matter expertise and specialist sharing across silos, reduces cross-team dysfunction and eliminates duplicative work. Named one of the top 50 management thinkers in the world by Thinkers50, she is the author of two bestselling books: Get Big Things Done: The Power of Connectional Intelligence (also the title of her keynote session) and Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance. Dhawan stresses that remote work doesn’t have to mean disconnected teams. In fact, the best leaders create intentional moments of connection by designing rituals of connection, reinforcing microrecognition and encouraging serendipitous collaboration. “By making connection a daily habit – not just an occasional event – leaders can cultivate strong team camaraderie, even from a distance,” Dhawan says. Authenticity amongst colleagues – and customers – is key. Dhawan says that promo pros can foster real engagement by prioritizing personal touchpoints, such as a handwritten note or a well-timed branded gift, engaging through digital body language and leveraging social proof and community-driven marketing. “Showcasing real-life success stories and user-generated content builds credibility and fosters trust,” Dhawan says. “The more human you make your digital interactions, the more authentic and impactful they become.” Dhawan will join several other speakers at WLC, which takes place June 23-25 at the Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa in Coronado, California. Small Event? Not a Lot of Space? New Small Display Kit ►6.5’ x 6.5’ Tent Kit ►4’ Table Cover ►6’ Blade Feather Flag FREE SETUP Kit Style KOI5000 Complete package just $1,035(C) SARAH HILL citrus groves Rugged Hex Aluminum Tent Frame FREE Wheeled Carry Bag FREE PMS Matches No Minimum Full Color, Full Coverage Imprint Carbon Fiber Pole & Ground Stake See all Display Packages at Discountmp.com citrus groves SARAH HILL PPAI/582106 SAGE/50398 citrus groves PPAI • JUNE 2025 • 95 Inside PPAI | Community
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