This program proves the power of personalized experiences and human connection to motivate top performers
Haute Global Travel, a leading incentive planning agency, recently orchestrated a transformative program for a major international hotel chain, proving that authentic recognition is the key to unlocking deeper engagement and lasting impact.
Dubbed “Constellation of Wonder,” the event, held at a resort in Arizona, shattered the mold of traditional incentive trips. Tasked with motivating a diverse group of top performers – from sales and revenue to field and event management – Haute ditched the tired playbook and embraced a fresh approach focused on genuine human connection, earning them a SITE Crystal Award for Excellence in Incentive Travel: North America in the process.
Personalized Touches Drive Meaningful Engagement
From the moment attendees arrived, Haute prioritized personalized experiences. Welcome booklets provided entertainment and information during airport transfers, while customized gifting suites and dedicated time with company executives fostered a sense of value and appreciation.
The highlight, however, was the innovative awards gala. Eschewing the standard “graduation-style” ceremony, Haute crafted an immersive experience that celebrated each individual. Utilizing creative lighting, décor, and live music, the gala showcased qualifiers in small groups, allowing for personalized recognition and genuine celebration.
“Instead of a grip-and-grin cattle call, we created an experience where each achiever saw their name (quite literally) in the stars while being serenaded from the stage,” says Alisa Walsh, CEO of Haute. “Both extroverts and introverts loved it: it met them at their comfort level.”
Beyond the Bells and Whistles: A Culture of Recognition
Haute’s success stemmed not just from creative programming but also from a meticulous focus on fostering a culture of recognition throughout the entire event. This involved collaborating closely with 40 host executives to ensure they were aligned on the program’s goals and empowered to make every attendee feel valued and appreciated.
The results speak for themselves. The program earned a 4.8 out of 5 rating from participants, who left feeling energized and inspired by the power of human connection. By prioritizing authentic recognition, Haute demonstrated that incentive travel can be more than just a reward – it can be a powerful tool for building stronger teams and driving future success.
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Photo: Getty Images For Unsplash+
