Forums and Discussions

2025 is right around the corner, and as GBS leaders, we’re at a point where we need to gear up for what’s ahead. This isn’t just about staying afloat; it’s about thriving in a sea of transformation and innovation. You might be wondering, “How do I stay relevant in this fast-paced environment?” or “What are the skills my team needs to tackle tomorrow’s challenges?” The answer lies in continuous learning and leveraging opportunities like webinars designed specifically for leaders in Global Business Services (GBS). These sessions don’t just deliver knowledge; they provide a platform for connecting with peers, sharing experiences, and brainstorming ideas that push boundaries. Why Webinars Matter Let’s face it. The landscape of shared services is changing faster than a NASCAR pit stop. The traditional models are being disrupted by emerging technologies and evolving expectations. Here’s where webinars shine: Accessible Knowledge: No travel costs or scheduling headaches. You can tune in wherever you are. Diverse Perspectives: Hear from experts across industries, bringing in fresh insights that you can apply at home. Real-time Interaction: Ask questions, get feedback, and engage in dialogues that matter. On-Demand Learning: Can’t make it live? Most webinars are recorded for you to explore later. Now, let’s dive into the key webinars you should be putting on your radar in 2025. Trust me, you don’t want to miss these. Top Webinars for GBS Leaders in 2025 1. The Future of Process Optimization Cutting costs while enhancing service quality? It sounds like a tall order. But the truth is, process optimization is the heartbeat of shared services. This webinar will break down strategies to streamline operations, automate manual tasks, and ultimately boost efficiency. 2. Leading through Change: Transformation Journeys Change can be jarring. One of my favorite quotes is from John Kotter: “Change is not a threat, it’s an opportunity.” This webinar dives deep into successful transformation journeys, with case studies from industry leaders who faced their fears and emerged victorious. You’ll walk away inspired and armed with actionable steps. 3. Technology Trends Shaping Shared Services You’ve heard the buzzwords: AI, machine learning, blockchain. But what do they actually mean for us in GBS? This session will shed light on the critical tech trends that are shaping our industry and how we can leverage these tools for better decision-making and operational agility. 4. Building a High-Performing Culture At the core of every successful organization is its people. This webinar focuses on cultivating a culture that thrives on accountability, innovation, and collaboration. With hands-on advice from top thought leaders, you’ll learn how to foster an environment that attracts and retains the best talent. 5. Enhancing Customer Experience in Shared Services Our end customers have higher expectations than ever. This session is all about customer experience and how it intersects with shared services. You’ll discover how integrating feedback loops and proactive communication can lead to an unparalleled customer experience. How to Get Started Feeling overwhelmed? That’s totally normal. Here’s a straightforward plan to help you integrate these insights: Set Goals: Identify key areas where you want to improve. Is it efficiency? Employee engagement? Customer satisfaction? Select Webinars: Choose webinars that directly relate to your goals. Prioritize your attendance list based on relevance. Engage Actively: Don’t be a passive listener. Ask questions. Share your thoughts. Make connections. Implement and Share: After each webinar, discuss what you learned with your team. Create an action plan to apply those insights. Balancing Knowledge with Application As GBS professionals, we don’t just absorb knowledge for the sake of it. We’re all about application. Here’s a little analogy: Think of learning like going to the gym. You don’t just read about fitness; you’ve got to hit the weights, warm up, sweat, and challenge yourself. Webinars are your gym sessions for professional development. The more you engage and apply, the stronger you become. The Importance of Community in Shared Services What I love about the GBS space is the sense of community. When you attend these webinars, you’re not just absorbing content; you’re building relationships. Networking with fellow leaders offers unfiltered insights that could prove invaluable. Sharing experiences, challenges, and successes creates a rich tapestry of knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, everyone stands to gain from collaborative problem-solving. You’ll be surprised how many people face the same challenges as you. Looking Ahead As we step into 2025, the road may seem uncertain, but it’s packed with opportunities if you’re ready to embrace them. The webinars mentioned aren’t just events; they’re pivotal moments that can shape the future of your organization. Start marking your calendars, preparing your questions, and getting tuned in to the conversation. For all the leaders and aspiring leaders within the shared services landscape, I strongly recommend checking out the THEGBSEDGE blog. It’s a treasure trove of insights on everything—from shared services transformation to process optimization. Take a moment to explore the articles and subscribe for updates. Remember, it’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving. With the right mindset and resources at your fingertips, 2025 can be your best year yet.

In a world where efficiency reigns supreme, the shared services industry must stay ahead of the game. Ever felt overwhelmed diving headfirst into new trends, processes, or technologies? You’re not alone. Many of us regularly grapple with that sense of uncertainty. From team members to leaders, we’re all juggling multiple priorities while aiming for seamless operations. Well, the good news is that we don’t have to navigate this murky water alone. The advent of webinars has brought a refreshing way to absorb information—accessible, engaging, and often, incredibly insightful. I’ve spent over 20 years in the outsourcing and offshoring industry, and let me tell you, these online sessions can be a game changer. Here’s my rundown of the top webinars scheduled for 2025 that promise to unlock efficiency for shared services professionals. 1. The Future of Shared Services: Trends to Watch Kick your year off with a webinar focused on the emerging trends in shared services. This session will cover: The impact of artificial intelligence on shared services. Shifts in customer expectations. Best practices for leveraging technology to enhance service delivery. We often get comfortable with how things are, but being proactive is where transformation lies. Keep an eye on this one! 2. Generating ROI: Proving the Value of Shared Services Your stakeholders want numbers. They want proof. This is the webinar that breaks down how we can demonstrate the return on investment from shared services. Here’s what you’ll gain: Metrics to track efficiency and productivity. Tools to analyze service costs versus savings. Real-life case studies showcasing successful implementations. A lot of times, we get caught in the weeds. It’s essential to come back up for air and show how our work truly matters. 3. Empowering Teams through Process Optimization If you’re in a position to empower your team, don’t miss this one. Process optimization is all about making things smoother, faster, and more effective. In this webinar, expect insights on: Identifying bottlenecks in current processes. Leveraging technology to automate workflows. Engaging your team for feedback to foster continuous improvement. It’s crucial to remember that the strength of shared services lies within the people driving it. Optimizing their work environment leads to better results all around. 4. Navigating Risk and Compliance in Shared Services As regulations evolve, so must we. This session will help you understand risk management in shared services. Expect discussions about: Current compliance requirements. Audit processes and maintaining service integrity. Strategies for embedding compliance into your culture. Let’s face it, compliance can seem like a buzzkill. But ignoring these areas can cost you big time. 5. Driving Customer Experience within Shared Services Your end-users don’t care about your internal processes; they care about the experience. This webinar emphasizes: Understanding customer needs and perceptions. Designing services around user-friendly principles. Utilizing feedback loops to enhance service offerings. By putting ourselves in the customers’ shoes, we can craft tailored experiences that keep them coming back. Benefits of Attending These Webinars So why should you take time out of your busy schedule to attend these sessions? Here are a few reasons: Direct access to industry experts who share their secrets. Networking opportunities with peers navigating the same challenges. Actionable insights that you can implement immediately. Consider these webinars as your springboard for transformation. Each one will equip you with fresh perspectives that are crucial for evolving your shared services. How to Make the Most of Your Webinar Experience Now that you have the list, how do you maximize your time spent in these sessions? Here are a few actionable tips: Take Notes: Document insights and ideas that resonate with you. Engage: Don’t just sit back—ask questions and partake in discussions. Implement: Post-webinar, take a moment to strategize how to incorporate your learnings into daily tasks. Everyone’s time is precious, so let’s make it count! Join the Community If you’re looking for more insights and resources, be sure to check out THEGBSESGE blog. We dive deep into topics like transformation, innovation, and leadership in the shared services realm. It’s a hub for professionals just like you. You won’t want to miss it! And while you’re there, don’t forget to subscribe for the latest articles and updates. This is one community you’ll want to stay connected with as we collectively navigate the future of shared services. Let’s make 2025 your year to shine in the shared services industry. Together, we can unlock efficiency, embrace innovation, and ultimately drive our organizations forward. Now go ahead, grab that coffee, and click those webinar links. Your future self will thank you!

Have you ever wondered why some Global Business Services (GBS) teams seem to seamlessly navigate challenges while others struggle? It often comes down to one key factor: effective training. As a professional in the shared services industry, I can tell you that proper training isn’t just an item on a checklist. It’s the heartbeat of any successful team. In a world where rapid changes are the norm, webinars can be a game changer for GBS teams striving for excellence. Why Webinars? The New Age of Training Webinars have, without a doubt, revolutionized how we train and develop skills within our teams. Imagine this: Live interaction with subject matter experts. Flexibility to attend from anywhere. Instant feedback through polls and Q&A sessions. In a landscape where team members might be scattered across various time zones, webinars provide an accessible platform to foster learning. Plus, they cater to diverse learning styles—presentation, discussion, and even gamified elements can all be incorporated into a single session. Getting Started: What Do You Need? Before diving into the actual execution of a webinar, let’s ensure you have the basics covered: A clear topic: Choose a subject that directly impacts your team’s performance. Right tools: Ensure you’re using a reliable platform that supports your needs. Promotion: Share the date and time across your team well in advance to maximize attendance. When I first introduced webinars to my team, I was amazed at the engagement levels. People loved discussing topics vital to their roles while feeling part of a community. Leveling Up: Planning the Perfect Webinar Alright, let’s dig a bit deeper. Here are steps to transform a basic webinar into a memorable training experience: Define objectives: What do you want attendees to walk away with? Engaging content: Don’t just read slides. Use stories, case studies, or real-life examples. Interactive elements: Use polls and quizzes to keep the energy up. Follow-up: Send a summary email, complete with key takeaways and additional resources. When you think about it, planning is straightforward. You’re not reinventing the wheel; you’re adding a fresh spin. This is where people in shared services can really shine, leveraging their process optimization skills. Real Stories for Real Impact So, why sit through a presentation when you could be told a story, right? Let me share an experience: I once led a webinar focusing on process efficiency for financial reporting across various departments. We kicked things off with a relatable story about a common issue our teams faced—end-of-month reporting chaos. Everyone could relate. From there, we dove into how to tackle that chaos through streamlined processes, illustrated with visuals that got folks chatting. At the end, the feedback was incredible. People began seeing webinars not as a chore, but as a resource they valued. Measuring Success: What Works? What Doesn’t? After your webinar, the real work begins. You must analyze what worked and what didn’t: Attendance rate: Did people show up? Engagement level: Were they asking questions, or did you lose them midway? Feedback: Send a quick survey to get thoughts on content, pacing, and delivery. This kind of data is pure gold. It helps you refine future webinars, ensuring each one is better than the last. Becoming a Webinar Wizard As you grow your skills in hosting webinars, embrace these best practices: Practice makes perfect. Run through your material several times. Invite a co-host. Having another person can bring a dynamic that enriches discussions. Be comfortable with the tech. Familiarize yourself with the platform to avoid hiccups. The more comfortable you are, the more your audience will relax and engage. They can sense your enthusiasm! Future-Proof Your GBS Team In our rapidly changing world, adapting to these shifts is crucial. Effective training through webinars not only empowers your GBS team but drives innovation. Implementing webinars as a primary training tool can create a culture of continuous learning. When team members feel valued and upskilled, there’s no limit to what they can achieve. Let’s be honest, if your organization isn’t embracing these tools, you could fall behind. Remember those processes you’re optimizing? A well-trained team will elevate them—driving transformation and innovation! Wrapping It Up Remember, mastering webinars for effective training is not a destination; it’s a journey. Start with small steps, make adjustments based on feedback, and see the impact on your team. For more insights on shared services, transformation, and the power of effective training, I highly recommend checking out THEGBSEDGE blog. It’s where the best discussions on empowering GBS teams happen. And if you’re looking to connect more deeply with the community, be sure to subscribe to the blog for the latest updates and insights.

We’ve all been there: staring at a blank page, wondering how to solve a problem or improve a process in our shared services environment. But what if the answers are out there—just waiting for us to tap into them? Online discussions can be gold mines for GBS (Global Business Services) best practices. They’re full of real-world experiences from fellow professionals who have walked the same challenging paths we’re navigating. Why Online Discussions Matter Let’s face it: we’re all looking for ways to simplify our work. Online discussions present a unique opportunity. They allow us to: Access a wealth of knowledge without attending endless meetings. Connect with experts who are tackling similar challenges. Foster innovation by sharing and collecting diverse insights. Build a community that supports continuous improvement. Engaging with others in online forums or social media groups can lead to aha moments that transform the way we approach our tasks. The Real Stories Behind Best Practices Not too long ago, I was grappling with a compliance issue that seemed insurmountable. After sharing my dilemma in an online GBS community, I was humbled by the flood of responses from seasoned pros. One member shared their step-by-step process for successful compliance management. By adapting their approach, I not only resolved my issue but also optimized our procedures moving forward. These genuine stories of trial and error help pave the way for new ideas. They inspire us to think outside the box as we aim for operational excellence. Steps to Harness Online Discussions Effectively Let me break down how to maximize this platform effectively. Identify the right platforms: Seek out forums, LinkedIn groups, and social media spaces populated by GBS professionals. Join discussions: Share your experiences. Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Be open to feedback: Not everyone will agree with your perspective. But every opinion can spark new ideas. Follow up: If someone shared an insightful thought, connect with them. Build relationships. The Power of Process Optimization Process optimization is crucial. And guess what? Online discussions are a treasure chest for uncovering process improvement tips. A colleague once shared a streamlined workflow they developed after engaging with others online. This sparked a series of changes in our own processes that have dramatically improved efficiency. Remember, it’s about learning from each other. When we share our wins and fails in those discussions, we refine our practices and understand what resonates. Tools to Enhance Online Discussion Engagement Want to take your online discourse to the next level? Here are a few tools that make engagement easier: Slack or Microsoft Teams: Create channels specifically for GBS discussions. Google Docs: Collaborate on shared thoughts without the hassle of email threads. SurveyMonkey: To collect opinions and feedback on specific topics. Zoom or Google Meet: Host informal hangouts to discuss big topics or issues. Cultivating a Culture of Sharing A culture focused on sharing knowledge and experiences is vital. Are your team members encouraged to speak up in these online discussions? We need to: Celebrate contributions Recognize helpful insights Instill a mindset of collaboration Finding Your Voice in Online Discussions If you’re hesitant to share your thoughts, I get it. It can be intimidating to put your ideas out there. However, consider this: Your perspective could be exactly what someone else needs to hear. It might lead to solutions or strategies that have yet to be uncovered. Start with small contributions, and as you grow more comfortable, you’ll find your voice in the community. Remember, it’s a journey in itself. Creating Lasting Connections Take a moment to think about your network. Are you leveraging online discussions to strengthen your relationships within the shared services domain? Building connections with others can open doors. Whether it’s referral opportunities or career advice, offline conversations can stem from those online exchanges. That’s the beauty of being part of a community. Taking Action: Be the Change Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to take action. Remember: Engage actively in discussions. Share your insights and learn from others. Keep advocating for best practices within your network. There’s no time like the present to elevate your shared services practices. Leverage the insights from those who have come before you. Join in on discussions, contribute, and watch as your industry knowledge and connections flourish. Join the Conversation at THEGBSEDGE One platform to consider is THEGBSEDGE. Launched by my good friend Vikrant Aglawe, this blog serves authentic insights from professionals across the landscape of shared services. You can dive deeper into topics on transformation, innovation, and leadership. So what are you waiting for? Jump into these online discussions and watch how they can redefine your GBS best practices.

Ever feel like the conversations in your GBS (Global Business Services) forums are just going in circles? Like everyone’s nodding but no one’s really connecting? You’re not alone. It’s a common struggle in the shared services industry. We gather all these brilliant minds together, but often leave the table without actionable insights or meaningful dialogue. That’s where the magic happens, folks! And I’m here to help you spark that conversations. Let’s break down some strategies to ignite those dialogues and truly make your GBS forums a powerhouse for transformation and innovation. Understanding GBS Forums: The Foundation First, we need to understand what GBS forums are all about. These are spaces—physical or virtual—where professionals come together to share knowledge, experiences, and ideas. The objective? Drive shared services transformation through collaboration. But let’s be real: just gathering a bunch of people doesn’t cut it. The key is to create an environment that encourages open, honest dialogue. Here’s how you can do just that: 1. Establish Clear Objectives What’s the point of the forum? Are you looking to enhance process optimization? Discuss technology innovations? Improve customer experience? Setting clear goals gives everyone a north star to aim for. Start each meeting with a recap of objectives. Encourage participants to share their personal goals for the discussion. 2. Create a Safe Space No one wants to share their thoughts if they fear judgment. Establish a culture where every voice is heard, no matter the rank or experience level. Consider these tips: Encourage participation from everyone. Share stories of mistakes made and lessons learned. When people feel safe, the dialogues become richer and more meaningful. 3. Foster Open-ended Questions Closed questions kill conversations. Instead of asking, “Did you like the new tool?” try, “What did you think about the implementation of the new tool?” This invites people to dive deeper. Here are some examples of open-ended questions: What challenges are you facing with current processes? How do you envision the future of shared services? What areas do you think need more innovation? Incorporating Storytelling Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in a facilitator’s kit. Everyone loves a good story. It makes concepts relatable and memorable. Share personal journeys or showcase successes from others in the industry. It has a way of breaking down barriers and encouraging dialogue. For instance, if someone shares a win related to process excellence, ask them to elaborate on how they got there. What hurdles did they face? This not only engages the audience but also provides actionable insights others can utilize. 4. Leverage Technology Incorporate tools that facilitate collaboration. Whether it’s a voting app to prioritize discussion topics or breakout rooms for smaller group interactions, technology can enhance engagement. Some options include: Collaborative platforms like Miro or MURAL for brainstorming. Polling tools like Slido to gather real-time feedback. Encouraging Continuous Learning GBS forums shouldn’t just be a one-off event. Encourage ongoing discussions by sharing resources and articles post-meeting. A great way to foster a learning culture is by promoting blogs that dive into shared services transformation, like THEGBSEDGE. Regularly highlight key takeaways and insights on shared services topics that resonate with participants. Providing materials related to process optimization or finance compliance can keep the momentum going. 5. Celebrate Achievements Don’t just focus on problems; celebrate wins, big and small. Acknowledging achievements energizes the group and sets a positive tone. Whether it’s a process improvement that led to efficiency gains or a new technology that simplified workflows, recognize these milestones. Follow Up and Get Feedback After each forum, follow up with participants. Send out a recap of discussions, key takeaways, and action items discussed. Also, ask for feedback on the session. What worked? What didn’t? This builds a culture of continuous improvement and shows that you value participants’ input. 6. Embrace Diversity Diverse teams produce diverse ideas. Encourage participation from different departments and levels of the hierarchy. A mix of backgrounds and experiences leads to more comprehensive discussions. Keep the Energy Up! Lastly, keep the energy high. Begin your discussions with icebreakers or engage in light-hearted banter before diving into serious topics. When the atmosphere is relaxed and enjoyable, people are more likely to engage. Start with a fun question—“If you could have any superpower, what would it be?” Share a humorous anecdote relevant to the shared services industry. Conclusion To ignite meaningful dialogues in your GBS forums, focus on creating an environment conducive to open conversation. Set clear objectives, promote storytelling, foster safe spaces, leverage technology, celebrate achievements, and embrace diversity. By implementing these strategies, we can ensure our forums are more than just meetings—they become catalysts for transformation in the shared services landscape. Let’s make our GBS forums a place where ideas flourish, innovations develop, and true collaboration thrives. For more insights into shared services transformation and to stay updated on the latest trends, don’t forget to check out THEGBSEDGE.

So you’re gearing up for the Global Shared Services Summit. You’ve got a ton on your plate, and the pressure is on. What do you focus on to make the most out of this opportunity? You’re not alone. Many of us feel overwhelmed before such an event—unsure of what to highlight, what booths to visit, or who to network with. I’ve been there. As someone who’s explored the shared services landscape for over 20 years, let’s break down how to make this summit not just another calendar date, but a real turning point in your career. Understand the Value of Preparation This isn’t just another conference. It’s a chance to shape the future of shared services transformation. Explore groundbreaking ideas. Connect with trailblazers in the field. Elevate your knowledge and practices. Trust me; the more prepared you are, the more you’ll walk away with insights that can truly transform how you approach your role. First Step: Set Clear Objectives What do you want to gain from this summit? Reflect on your goals: Networking? Meeting specific individuals? Learning? Diving deep into shared services trends? Implementation? Finding actionable strategies for process optimization? Write down your objectives. Clarity will help you make better decisions on which sessions to attend and discussions to join. Know Your Audience Understanding the attendees gives you a leg up. Your fellow participants are a mix of: Associates & Sr. Associates Process Experts & Specialists Super Users of Operational Systems Subject Matter Experts Think about what interests them. Tailor your conversations, and you’ll find common ground. Craft Your Networking Strategy Networking can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to. Let’s make it approachable: Identify five people you want to connect with during the summit. Research them ahead of time. A little info goes a long way. Focus on value. What can you share that might interest them? Remember, networking is a two-way street. Offer genuine insights, and you’ll create lasting connections. Engage with Content Get the most out of the sessions by preparing yourself for the content. If you’re attending discussions on shared services transformation, come armed with questions or topics you’re eager to explore. Take notes during the sessions—real ones. Share highlights on social media and tag speakers. This opens the door for dialogue. Interactive Workshops: Don’t Just Attend, Participate! Workshops are gold mines. Participate actively! Why? It’s not just about gathering information. It’s about: Exchanging ideas and best practices. Problem-solving with your peers. Enhancing your skill set. Remember, the more you contribute, the more you’ll learn. Follow Up and Continue the Conversation The summit doesn’t end when you leave the venue. That’s just the beginning. Here’s how to keep the momentum going: Follow up with the connections you made. Email them with insights and resources you discussed. Engage on LinkedIn. Share articles that may interest them. Tell Your Story: Stand Out Everyone has a story. Don’t hold back! When talking with fellow attendees, share your experiences. What challenges did you face? What successes have you celebrated? Your narrative might resonate and create a deeper bond. Storytelling is powerful! Stay Updated on Industry Trends Shared services are evolving quickly. Stay informed about recent trends in: Transformation Innovation Process Excellence Having knowledge of what’s current can give you confidence in conversations, making you a go-to person for insights. After the Summit: Reflect and Implement Once the summit wraps up, it’s time to reflect. Ask yourself: What insights did you gain? How can you implement what you’ve learned? Which connections can open new doors? Document these thoughts in a structured manner. A few notes can spark big changes in your workflow. Create an Action Plan It’s not enough to just attend. You have to take action. Create a post-summit plan that includes: Key initiatives based on new insights. Follow-up actions with your network. Ideas for sharing knowledge with your team. Why The GBS Edge? Your Go-To Resource I highly recommend visiting THEGBSEDGE blog for insights and encouragement. This blog is packed with resources like people and culture trends, process optimization strategies, and leadership guidance relevant to shared services. Stay Connected Don’t let this experience fade away after the summit. Commit to engaging in the shared services community. Subscribe to THEGBSEDGE and stay abreast of the latest talking points and innovations. Preparing for the Global Shared Services Summit is about more than just attending an event. It’s about equipping yourself with the tools, connections, and insights to elevate your career in shared services. Let’s turn those challenges into growth opportunities and make an impact that lasts beyond the event itself!

Webinars—They can be game-changers. But why do they often fall flat? Have you ever hosted one, only to see disengagement numbers rise while your initial excitement fizzled out? It happens more than you’d think in shared services teams where the pressure is high, and the stakes even higher. I’ve spent over 20 years in the shared services industry. From navigating outsourcings to setting up large-scale service centers, I know what it takes to get teams aligned. Let’s tackle this together, like sipping coffee with a friend on a slow afternoon. Understand Your Audience Your first step? Understand who’s tuning in. Dive into what your audience needs. Are they associates seeking answers to daily challenges? Or maybe super users wanting to gain insights into the latest systems? Whatever their role, it’s essential to walk in their shoes. Consider creating an FAQ section based on team inquiries. Make sure every point you present relates to their experience. Use relatable stories—everyone loves a good tale! Content is King—But Context is God Content is crucial. But you cannot overlook how you present it. When my team started hosting webinars on process optimization, we quickly realized that covering topics like “data entry efficiencies” in granular detail didn’t resonate. Instead, sharing stories about real challenges faced by teams created connection. When designing content, think of these principles: Be relatable. Sharing a struggle is more engaging than dumping statistics. Use visuals. Diagrams or charts can communicate complex ideas quickly. Keep it concise. Limit each slide to a single idea. Technological Touchpoints Technology can either be your best friend or your biggest enemy. With the right tools, your webinars can transform into interactive experiences. Here’s what I’ve learned: Choose a platform aligning with your team’s tech savviness. Integrate chat features so participants can engage in real-time. Use polls to gauge opinions; it also keeps the energy high. Pre-Webinar Prep Trust me—preparation is everything. The worst thing is getting to webinar day and realizing you’re missing crucial elements. A checklist can be your lifeline here. Finalize your agenda a week ahead. Rehearse the presentation a couple of times. Send reminders to register and prep your team. Engagement: The Heart of Every Webinar So you’re live—what now? Engagement is not just about speaking; it’s about interaction. During one webinar, I asked attendees to share their biggest process pain points and it opened the floor to meaningful discussion. Here’s how to keep that momentum going: Ask open-ended questions that invite thought. Share breakout sessions for smaller groups to discuss key topics. Encourage feedback in real time. Your Follow-Up is Everything You’re not done just because the webinar has ended. This is where real connections are solidified. A simple follow-up email can provide attendees with resources, recap discussions, and ask for feedback. Plus, it shows you care! This builds community and drives the conversation into the future—because that’s what shared services is about. Check out people and culture insights to really deepen relationships with your audience. Measure Outcomes After it’s all said and done, what do you do with the information? Measuring success is crucial. Look at engagement metrics, participant feedback, and overall satisfaction rates. Tools like analytics can help you track who attended, how long they stayed, and which sections sparked interest. Knowledge is power, especially when refining your future webinars. Make It a Habit Lastly, don’t treat webinars like a one-off. Establish a rhythm. Frequent, smaller sessions can often lead to deeper engagement than occasional mega-sessions. As I’ve found in my career, consistency fosters familiarity and trust, two invaluable commodities in the shared services landscape. Final Thoughts on Mastering Webinar Success We’ve touched on a lot today, but remember, webinars are just like sharing a meal with friends—good food and good company make all the difference. The magic lies in building authentic connections, understanding your audience, and honing in on their needs. There’s always something new to learn, so check out more insights on THEGBSEDGE blog for continuous learning in areas like strategy and leadership. Mastering webinar success can feel overwhelming. But with the right mindset, preparation, and execution, your shared services team can shine. Now go out there, share your knowledge, and keep those connections thriving!

Ever felt overwhelmed navigating the maze of shared services? You’re not alone. Many professionals in the industry are wrestling with the same question: how can I leverage GBS networks to truly make an impact? Spoiler alert: it’s all about connection, insight, and collaboration. For the past 20 years, I’ve been in the trenches of outsourcing and shared services, helping organizations flatten silos and drive efficiencies. I’ve set up and led large-scale shared service centers, and boy, have I seen what works, and what doesn’t. One thing is crystal clear—it’s the connections you make and the networks you join that can propel your strategic growth. Why Join GBS Networks? Imagine you’re in a room full of like-minded professionals, each armed with their own arsenal of insights and experiences. That’s the power of GBS networks. Access to Expertise: Tap into a wealth of knowledge. Find answers to those pressing questions that keep you up at night. Innovative Solutions: Discover tools and techniques that you can implement immediately. It’s like getting a sneak peek at the industry’s best practices. Collaborative Learning: Use shared experiences to build your own knowledge base. The mistakes others make can save you a world of trouble. But hold on, joining a network isn’t just about passive learning. It’s about being an active participant. Share your insights, contribute to discussions, and you’ll find your growth multiplies. Making Connections That Count Networking isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential. When you join a top GBS network, you’re not just a number. You’re a part of a community. You’ll find people who’ve faced the same challenges and can offer you tailored advice that speaks to your situation. Find Your Tribe: Identify peers who understand your struggles and aspirations. Building Trust: Regular interactions pave the way for genuine relationships. Trust leads to beneficial collaborations. Diversity of Thought: Engaging with folks from different backgrounds sparks creativity and innovation. For example, I once joined a networking event focused on shared services transformation. There, I met a process expert who had implemented a new automation tool in her service center. It didn’t take long for her to become a trusted ally, sharing firsthand insights that saved my team weeks of trial and error. Leverage Knowledge Sharing When you join GBS networks, you tap into a rich repository of knowledge. But how do you best leverage it? Here are some quick tips: Attend Webinars: Virtual events are gold mines of information. Come prepared with questions. Join Discussion Groups: These forums often unearth practical advice specific to your challenges. Follow Influencers: Engage with thought leaders in the space. Their insights can provide a fresh perspective. I’ve participated in various discussions that altered my approach to process optimization. It’s thrilling to see ideas morph from concepts into actionable strategies. Tools and Resources to Maximize Impact The right tools can supercharge your efforts. When you’re part of a vibrant GBS network, you’ll often get access to exclusive resources. Cloud Platforms: Many networks offer discounted access to leading technology tools that improve your service delivery. Benchmarking Tools: Leverage industry benchmarks to see where you stand against your peers. Templates and Frameworks: Utilize pre-built templates to accelerate your projects. For instance, when our team needed to revamp our finance compliance processes, a simple benchmarking tool from the network allowed us to identify gaps and best practices immediately. Building a Culture of Continuous Learning To truly maximize the impact of being part of a GBS network, you need to adopt a mindset of continuous improvement. Here’s how to instill that in your organization: Encourage Experimentation: Don’t stifle creativity. Allow team members to test new ideas, no matter how outlandish they may seem. Celebrate Learning Moments: Share lessons learned from failures as well as successes. It creates a safe space for growth. Regular Feedback Loops: Build a system where giving and receiving feedback becomes second nature. Once, in my shared services center, we encountered a massive hiccup during a technology transition. Instead of placing blame, we dissected the experience, learned, and emerged stronger. That culture of openness continues to pay dividends. How to Select the Right GBS Network for You Not all networks are created equal. Here’s how to sift through the noise and find the best fit: Consider Your Goals: What are you hoping to achieve? Ensure the network aligns with your aspirations. Evaluate Member Engagement: Active networks feel alive. Look for vibrant communities where members regularly interact. Check for Relevant Resources: The best networks offer access to tailored resources that resonate with your position. When I first sought a GBS network, my main goal was to find insights surrounding shared services transformation. I quickly gravitated toward THEGBSEDGE blog and its community—a treasure trove of information and contacts. Creating Your Own Opportunities Getting involved in a GBS network empowers you, but don’t forget that creating your own opportunities is just as essential. Here’s how: Start Conversations: Don’t wait for others to approach you. Be proactive in initiating discussions. Offer Help: If someone’s seeking advice on a process, share what worked for you. It builds goodwill. Share Your Learnings: Provide insights from your own experiences. Whether it’s a success story or a major lesson learned, your input is valuable. I remember brainstorming strategies at a networking event and casually sharing a framework I had developed. The reception was overwhelming, leading to several collaborations that followed. Trust me; the impact is mutual! Your Role in the GBS Community Never underestimate the role you play in the GBS community. Being a part of it comes with a responsibility to contribute and uplift others. Be an Active Listener: Pay attention to the challenges your peers face. Sometimes, all someone needs is an empathetic ear. Engage with Enthusiasm: Bringing energy into discussions fosters a lively community. Be Open to New Connections: Embrace diversity. Each contact can open doors you didn’t even know existed. The best part? The relationships formed will transcend professional boundaries—this community becomes an extended support network. Final Thoughts If you’re serious about maximizing impact