Powering CX with AI: Robbert Dijkstra’s insights on leading the change

Welcome to another episode of CX Leadership Talks! In this episode, Nienke Bloem engages in a fascinating conversation with Robbert Dijkstra, the founder and CEO of Deepdesk. Robbert brings his wealth of experience in AI technology and innovation to the forefront as he discusses the deployment of AI in companies and its impact on improving customer experiences.

In this episode

Robbert shares insights on the use of ChatGPT for deploying AI in organizations and provides practical examples of how Deepdesk aligns its vision with customer needs by developing prototypes and gathering valuable feedback. He also delves into the impact of AI on organizations, sharing his experiences with DHL where AI led to significant improvements in customer service.

The conversation extends to the future of AI technology, with Robbert envisioning the rise of more AI vendors and the development of task-specific AI models. He also shares his thoughts on the rapid increase of AI in everyday software and the possibility of AIs communicating with each other in the future.

This episode is not just about AI technology, but also delves into practical advice for leaders and organizations looking to integrate AI into their operations. Robbert emphasizes the importance of practical experimentation with AI, advocating for its integration into daily work processes, and shares valuable insights on building a culture of ownership and responsibility within organizations.

In addition to all this, the episode is packed with valuable tips from Robbert on fostering curiosity and staying on top of the industry, along with recommendations for valuable entrepreneurship content.

Tune in to this enriching episode as Robbert Dijkstra and Nienke Bloem dive deep into the world of AI, customer experiences, and leadership in the contact center industry!

About Robbert Dijkstra

The future is here… and he loves it! Mesmerized as a young teenager by the endless possibilities of the Internet, Robbert is truly passionate about exponential technologies and digital disruption is what drives him. Shaping strategic vision on innovation, spotting opportunities, sharing these passions and collaborating with others to create impact is what Robbert enjoys the most.

Want to grow as a CX Leader? Contact Nienke Bloem via her website www.nienkebloem.com. She is a CX expert and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed in CX leadership.

Timestamped overview

00:00 Robbert started young, this led to technology consulting role.

04:53 Introduction of AI models in customer service.

07:37 Tailored models require specific training and data. Generative AI uses global data for broader applications.

11:09 Challenges with running AI models in production.

13:16 Larger companies handle challenges better through trials.

16:20 AI will be pervasive, personal and unseen.

21:44 LLM improves software development and implementation efficiency.

24:36 Improving organization processes, agent work, and user experience.

26:48 Technology trials typically last 3-6 months.

30:53 Customers modify dashboard, control agent communication, knowledge assist.

32:43 Contact center transformation leading to cultural shift.

38:54 Struggle hiring junior staff, prioritize mid-senior. Customer commitment.

40:46 Agility and execution win hearts and minds.

43:46 Curiosity and problem-solving drive efficient perseverance.

48:10 Grateful for insightful AI discussion on podcast.

Robbert’s recommendations

Podcast ‘Doorzetters’ (in Dutch) by Ruud Hendriks and Richard Bross

And as promised, Robbert’s cliffhanger ;-): Ben Evans on What matters in tech?

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Entrepreneurial CX Leadership: A Conversation with Jeannie Walters

Welcome to CX Leadership Talks, where we delve into the world of customer experience leadership and innovation. In this episode, Nienke Bloem is joined by the dynamic entrepreneur and CEO of Experience Investigators, Jeannie Walters. Together, they explore the multifaceted world of customer experience and the why, how and what of successful CX leaders.

In this episode

Jeannie shares her wisdom and experiences, offering valuable insights for aspiring CX entrepreneurs – from resilience in the face of criticism to the intricacies of building and managing a CX team.

The conversation also touches on the importance of staying ahead of trends in ethics, diversity, and global customer inclusivity, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities in the CX landscape.

So, join us as we uncover the secrets to effective CX leadership with Jeannie Walters on CX Leadership Talks!

About Jeannie Walters

Jeannie helps business leaders – from individuals to small businesses to Fortune 1000s – learn and apply customer-centric initiatives that benefit their customers, employees and bottom line. She believes CX is about the actions your team takes on a daily basis to use these tools to serve the larger organizational goals. Jeannie approaches CX strategy this way: “Let’s build the right vision, strategy and outcomes around customer experience to meet or exceed our larger company-wide goals.” Working with cross-functional leadership, she helps organizations make CX a part of their everyday culture instead of a one-off initiative that’s quickly forgotten about.

Want to grow as a CX Leader? Contact Nienke Bloem via her website www.nienkebloem.com. She is a CX expert and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed in CX leadership.

Timestamped overview

00:00 Celebrating successful podcast, helping leaders with experience.

05:03 Organizations adapted to customer experience amid change.

08:27 Strong communication crucial for getting leadership support.

10:18 Spice up leadership, challenge, communicate, take action.

15:26 Organizations should connect activities to progress effectively.

18:13 Realizing the importance of outdoor time.

21:42 Understanding the impact and challenges of AI.

23:32 Ethics, diversity, and risk management in organizations.

30:03 Success is not a straight line.

33:20 Team includes COO, CMO, social media support.

34:25 Various arrangements with contractors, almost full-time. Team environment, sharing unique skills.

38:40 Established CXI Flight School to bridge gap.

41:43 Specialize in CX for professional success.

45:19 Morning routine: workout, meditate, journal, plan.

47:54 Listen to diverse podcasts for marketing inspiration.

Jeannie’s recommendations

Podcast ‘Hidden Brain’ with Shankar Vedantam

Podcast ‘How I built this’ with Guy Raz

The CMO Podcast with Jim Stengel

And of course, Jeannie’s own podcast: Experience Action

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

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Avoid these 5 mistakes in your CX Storytelling journey

Welcome to the CX Leadership Talks, the podcast that delves deep into the world of customer experience leadership. In this episode, Nienke Bloem shares her personal experience and insights into crafting a compelling CX story.

What is a CX story?

With an attractive CX story you show the why, how and what of the CX transformation you want to realize. A good CX story keeps your audience listening attentively and wanting to know more. It is this story that you can tell time and time again, that really helps the audience understand what your CX mission is and what they have to work on and why this is important.

In this episode, Nienke takes us back to her early days at KPN, where she was tasked with presenting the top 80 leaders with a CX transformation plan in just 100 days. She discusses the importance of storytelling in CX, and reveals the five most common mistakes made in CX stories. From being too functional and boring to lacking a strong call to action, she breaks down the flaws she’s witnessed and provides valuable tips for elevating your CX narrative. So grab your notebook and get ready to enhance your CX leadership skills with Nienke’s expert advice.

Timestamped overview

00:00 Focused on strategy and storytelling for 100 days.

03:24 Crafting a compelling CX story is crucial.

08:58 Creating brand delivery, customer culture, call-to-action.

12:37 Presentation should have emotion, be memorable. Avoid being too functional or too general.

13:56 Ensure memorable and tailored presentation for success.

18:35 Importance of clear and specific calls to action

21:47 Get the audience, share the podium, lead.

The outline above offers a comprehensive overview of this episode’s content and provides an insight into Nienke’s personal experiences.

More on her education portfolio: https://www.nienkebloem.nl/en/cx-educatie/

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

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The CX Visionary: Bill Staikos on Redefining Experience Management

In this episode of CX Leadership Talks we delved deep into our profession of customer experience management, discussing the limitations of relying solely on surveys, the power of feedback in driving genuine change, and the crucial alignment of CX with broader business strategy.

This episode of CX Leadership Talks features Bill Staikos, a celebrated CX Practitioner and visionary leader from Medallia. Bill is a Customer & Employee Experience leader whose mission is to bring together these two disciplines to create value for employees, customers and shareholders. Together, we uncovered practical advice for you as a CX Leader.

In this episode we discuss

  • CX and EX evolution over the last 20 years
    Bill explains how his approach to customer and employee experience evolved over his 20-year career.
  • The power of feedback in driving true change
    Bill talks about the way Medallia transforms customer and employee experiences by effective feedback mechanisms.
  • The impact of technology on CX
    Bill shares his vision on how artificial intelligence and machine learning will shape the future of CX and EX and how technology can significantly impact customer or employee experience.

About Bill Staikos

Bill Staikos is a renowned expert in the field of customer experience, known for his visionary approach and deep insights into CX practices, technology, and strategy alignment. With a wealth of experience, Bill brings valuable perspectives on driving business growth through effective customer experience management.

Want to grow as a CX Leader? Contact Nienke Bloem via her website www.nienkebloem.com. She is a CX expert and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to succeed in CX leadership.

Time-stamped overview

00:00 Practitioner and leader in enterprise experience software.

05:16 Realizing work is about company goals, strategy.

06:49 CX leaders must focus on both values.

11:13 Surveys are important for analytics and improvement.

14:14 Active engagement is essential for building customer relationships.

19:12 Software predicts intent for mortgage and auto applications.

20:03 Efficient personalized car search with journey orchestration.

24:29 Different regions have unique paths and progress.

26:41 Using Chat GPT to determine top insights.

31:47 Podcast strategy helps reach people effectively.

35:44 Improve HR, connect work to company’s values.

37:31 Gather customer insights, collaborate with internal teams.

40:27 Believe in systems, focus on efficiency, explore.

Bill’s recommendations

Enjoy this episode of CX Leadership Talks!

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

/door

The Data-Driven CX Revolution: all insights for you as a CX leader from Barry Wilthagen

In this enlightening episode of CX Leadership Talks, we delve deep into the core of data management and its transformative impact on customer experience. This THE episode when you are just starting in exploring the world of Data driven CX, but also if you are a seasoned leader you’ll get some great tips and tricks.

Joining us is Barry Wildhagen, a distinguished expert in data management, to explore the crucial intersection of data and CX, the imperatives of a data-driven approach, and the evolving landscape for data professionals.

Because there is a BIG opportunity for you: visiting the Virtual MDM and DG Summit on the 13th of March! (and Nienke is hosting it for the EMEA version!) Click here to register https://now.informatica.com/mdm-dg-summit-virtual-2024.html

In this podcast episode we discuss

  1. The Intersection of Data Management and CX: – Barry sheds light on how data management serves as the backbone of effective customer experience strategies, outlining the symbiotic relationship between these two vital areas.
  2. The Imperative of Data-Driven CX: – Understanding why a data-driven approach to CX is non-negotiable in today’s business environment. We discuss the significance of leveraging data for personalized and impactful customer interactions.
  3. Habits of Success in Data Management: – What does it take to succeed in the field of data management? Learn about the key habits and mindsets that professionals need to cultivate for success.
  4. Integrating AI in Data-Driven CX: – The role of AI in enhancing data-driven customer experiences. Barry shares insights on harnessing AI to unlock new levels of personalization and efficiency.
  5. Challenges and Opportunities in Data-Driven CX: – Discussing the hurdles faced by organizations in adopting a data-driven CX approach and the immense opportunities that lie ahead for those who overcome them.
  6. The Evolving Role of Data Professionals: – With the landscape constantly shifting, we talk about how the role of data professionals is changing and what the future holds.

Key Takeaways

– Insightful perspectives on the vital role of data management in crafting superior customer experiences.

– Practical advice on adopting a data-driven approach to CX, including the integration of AI technologies.

– Discussion on the challenges and opportunities in the field, along with the evolving responsibilities of data professionals.

About Barry Wildhagen

Barry Wildhagen is an authority when it comes to data management and currently serving as the community of practice leader for customer experience at Informatica’s technical sales organization. He is a professional with extensive experience in leveraging data to drive business growth and improve customer experience. His expertise encompasses a range of topics, including the successful integration of AI in CX strategies and the development of effective data-driven approaches.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Barry Wildhagen, as we navigate the complexities of data management and its critical influence on customer experience and leadership in the corporate world.

Linkedin profile Barry Wildhagen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bwildhagen/

Barry Wildhagen’s tips with links

Interview Jamex Sexton on Lex Fridman show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUEjCXpOjPY

The Pale Blue Dot  https://www.amazon.com/Pale-Blue-Dot-Vision-Future/dp/0345376595

You don’t want to miss this episode of CX Leadership Talks!

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

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Navigating the Year of the Wood Dragon: Education, Growth, and CX Leadership Choices

In this episode, Nienke Bloem discusses the significance of the year of the wood dragon in relation to transformative energy, authority, and dignity, particularly for CX leaders.

She shares her personal experiences with education and growth both as an employee in corporate organizations and as an entrepreneur. Nienke highlights the importance of strategic education planning and outlines key questions for listeners to consider to identify growth opportunities.

She also provides insights into her own educational journey and plans for the year. Nienke encourages listeners to dream bigger, do bigger, and be bigger in the year of the wood dragon.

Learn from this episode of CX Leadership Talks, enjoy!

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

/door

Elevating business impact: the magic of CX Leadership and design-centric approaches

This episode of the CX Leadership Talks podcast Design methods and CX leadership are the topics.

Krisztina Kanizsai is my guest and a multifaceted professional with expertise in service and customer design, as well as UX research. Her mission is to create meaningful experiences that have a positive impact on business results.

The conversation in this episode explores the transformative power of design thinking and problem framing, highlighting the crucial role these play in fostering innovation and addressing customer needs. The dynamic relationship between UX and CX is also examined, emphasizing the necessity for collaboration and empathy-driven research to create impactful customer experiences. The episode delves into the importance of experimentation, training, and co-creation in achieving cohesive cross-functional collaboration and offers valuable insights into how design thinking can elevate the business impact of CX leadership.

The article for design thinking and Airbnb.

Timestamped overview

00:11 Excited for customer experience friend from Hungary.

05:49 Passionate person with goal of educating others.

09:12 Both disciplines rely on each other.

11:17 Design is a mindset, focusing on functionality.

16:13 Obstacles are opportunities, innovate by problem framing.

19:33 Good idea, collaboration, prioritization, changed strategy.

23:56 Consider everyone, their concerns, build trust.

27:43 Experiment, pilot, start small, clear impact, educate, trust.

29:55 Hire expert for true success in CX.

35:55 ChatGPT: Design thinking saves time.

39:31 Design Thinking helps with audience interaction, LinkedIn available.

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

/door

The huge opportunities of Leadership Events for you as a CX professional

Welcome to the latest episode of CX Leadership Talks with me, Nienke Bloem. I apologize for the hiatus between episodes, as I took a much-needed break. But I’m back now, and today’s episode is a must-listen for CX leaders.

We’re going to dive into the world of leadership retreats and why they are such valuable opportunities for CX professionals. We’ll explore the different types of events, the benefits of attending, and practical tips for making the most out of these gatherings.

I’ll also share my own experiences as a speaker and organizer at such events. So, stay tuned and let’s take a deeper look at leadership retreats in the world of CX.

Listen to this podcast

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

/door

The Role of CX Leadership in Today’s World – with Ian Golding

In this episode of the CX Leadership Talks Podcast, Nienke Bloem interviews Ian Golding, one of the worlds famous CX Specialists and fellow CCXP.

Together they discuss a wide range of topics like customer experience management and how to spice it up. Exploring customer experience and the topic of your leadership authority.

If you are interested in CX education and want to learn more about it, this episode is a must-listen. You will gain valuable insights and knowledge from CX experts who have years of experience in the field.

Timestamps

[00:05:14] “External customer-centric expert focuses on empowerment”

[00:08:37] “The Power of Earning Authority for CX Professionals”

[00:13:30] Why Job Titles and Salaries Don’t Matter

[00:16:49] “The Importance of Listening to Four Voices”

[00:19:51] The Lack of Leadership Hindering Business Change.

[00:25:28] Board member praises simple customer journey visualization

[00:29:16] Operationalizing Theory: Basics Forgotten in Practice.

[00:31:21] “Siloed working stifles progress in businesses”

[00:34:30] “Eliminate Non-Value Added Work for Efficiency”

[00:36:31] “Identifying Non-Value Added Activity: A Strategy”

Listen to this episode

 

*****

Nienke Bloem is often called the Customer Experience speaker in the blue dress. 

She’s a global CX thought leader, educator and a global keynote speaker who inspires audiences with best practices and proven methodologies. She leads a speaking practice, a CX game company and a training business; she breathes Customer Experiences and is author of two CX books.

Her two-day Customer Experience Masterclass is known as the best program to prepare for your CCXP and she is the go-to person voor CX leaders who want to advance their leadership and bring direct results from their Customer Experience transformation programs. Since 2020, she hosts a CX Leadership Masterminds program and helps leaders spice up their leadership and deliver an engaging CX Story including a solid CX Strategy. Besides, she is a modern-day pilgrim and found the parallel with leading customer centric transformations. 

With her over 20 years corporate experience, she speaks the business language. Her keynotes and education programs in Customer Experience are inspiring and hands-on. She is one of the few Recognized Training Partners of the CXPA and it is her mission to Make Customer Experience Work and help you deliver business results. 

/door