"I would absolutely recommend an inspiration tour; it helps to shake loose entrenched ideas."
SNS has been a key player in the Dutch financial sector for many years. This sector is also affected by the rapid global changes taking place. To stay relevant in this evolving world, SNS recognized the need to look beyond its own familiar approach. The bank was looking for inspiration from companies facing similar challenges. Stay Future Proof organized an inspiration tour filled with fresh perspectives and new insights, during which the management team also reflected on their own work and approach.
Raymond Neilen, Director of the SNS Customer Team, participated in the inspiration tour: "We visited various organizations active in different industries, focused on all kinds of areas of expertise. From sustainability to innovation, and entrepreneurship." Each visit started with a keynote, followed by an interactive session to ask questions and exchange ideas. "The keynotes really made us think about our own strategy. These diverse insights allowed us to reflect: are we up-to-speed and focused on our own path?"
Our approach
One of the organizations visited was ING, which shared insights into its sustainability strategy. Younger organizations also participated: Johnny Cashew focused on the journey it has taken as a startup, and Lifely, a digital agency, talked about AI and digital transformations. This broad approach not only provided SNS with inspiration but also valuable insights into how similar companies are tackling major challenges.
Stay Future Proof was in the lead during the tour and prepared the day in advance. Raymond: "The guidance was excellent. Stay Future Proof coordinated everything flexibly and was present throughout the day to guide the group. The inspiring kick-off at the Vondelkerk, Stay Future Proof’s office, also contributed to the atmosphere, helping us open up to new ideas."
Results
The inspiration tour had a positive impact on the participants, both professionally and personally. For many at SNS, the tour was a wake-up call to "think differently" and adapt to market changes. Raymond: "The inspiration tour provides you with new insights, you literally look at your own work through different lenses."
Raymond describes how the diversity of the organizations brought new energy to the team: "For example, when you visit Johnny Cashew, you feel the entrepreneurial spirit. The environment plays a significant role in that."
The visit to various companies also helped the SNS Management Team gain better insight into each other's talents and strengths, contributing to stronger collaboration within the team.
SNS looks back on the inspiration tour with great satisfaction and is now more aware of the power of external inspiration. Raymond: "I would definitely recommend this, especially as a part of a strategic process. It helps disrupt established thinking and refine our focus on our unique strengths.” Stay Future Proof helped SNS look beyond its own boundaries and find new inspiration to continue growing in a sustainable way in a competitive market.
We would be happy to discuss how we can also make your organization future proof. Curious?
