Kick-off Event 2024

Every year in January, the LEUE & NILL kick-off event takes place. There, the plans and goals for the new year are discussed and the results of the previous year are presented.

A few trainees are also allowed to attend the event every year. This year, Michelle, Hanan, and Dmitrij were able to join. We interviewed the three of them to find out their personal impressions of the annual kick-off event.

But first, regarding the procedure:

When the three of them arrived at the Westfälische Industrieklub (the location), they were given name tags at the beginning. Afterwards, things started with a snack. The official part, presented by the management, began around 1:00 PM. The employees who were attending for the first time, including us trainees, were introduced. During the first part of the evening, Ayyoub's trainee presentation also took place. After that, there was a break.

After the break, the presentations from the TV, International, and Automotive departments continued. Following the presentations, there was another short break where attendees could grab a small bite to eat and something to drink. After that came the presentations from the Industrial Property Insurance department, the Industrial Liability Insurance department with a 5-minute video, Private / VIP, and Pensions. This was the longest presentation segment of the event. Following the presentations, there was another short break with the opportunity to chat with colleagues. After the break, guest speaker Thorsten Havener took the stage. He demonstrated how to recognize what a person will do next through facial expressions and gestures. There were also a few magic tricks included.

After the guest speaker left, there was a final remark. Following that, there was a standing reception. The tables were marked with name tags so that people might sit with colleagues we perhaps did not know yet. This made it possible to talk with them and get to know them better. Dinner was served after that. Since it was an open evening, everyone could decide how much longer they wanted to stay. Many of the colleagues stayed even after dinner to continue talking and exchanging ideas.

How did you imagine the evening and were your expectations met?

Michelle: I already knew that many presentations would be given, so I expected that. Some departmental presentations I liked better than others, but on the whole, I found all the presentations quite interesting. You get to see what is currently going on in the department and what the plans are for this year. Through videos/photos and the demonstration of the customer portals, you got a good insight into the department and its projects.

Dimi: I imagined the evening would be relatively relaxed and quiet, and that expectation was met, but it was a good deal more exciting and interesting than I had imagined.

HananThe evening was both very informative and exciting. During the evening, I was able to gain many insights into the various departments that I didn't know as well yet.

What was the dress code?

Michelle: One really had to dress properly and chicly.

Dimi: The dress code was more formal and serious, for example, suits, sports coats, etc.

HananMost of the guests wore a suit. Sneakers were rather out of the question since it was quite an elegant event, so everyone was dressed up pretty fancy.

How was the atmosphere that evening?

MichelleThe atmosphere was relaxed. Even as an apprentice, you could easily chat with the others. During the presentations there were also breaks so that they wouldn't go on for too long.

Dimi: The atmosphere was good. You could have a nice chat with the other employees and had good conversations. You felt comfortable.

Hanan We were able to end the evening on a high note. There was a lot of laughter and conversation. Especially when we were surprised by the guest speaker.

What was your highlight of the evening?

Michelle: The highlight of the evening was the guest speaker. He gave a presentation and showed how to tell what the other person will do next through gestures and facial expressions.

Dimi: There were many presentations that evening that were very interesting and also very important for the future, but I must say that I really liked the show at the end of the evening.

HananIn the evening, Thorsten Havener, the mentalist, was invited by the executive board. There he showed us his ability to read and influence human thoughts and emotions. He explained techniques and secrets from the field of communication as well as concepts for personal development.

Would you want to go back there?

Michelle: I would like to go along again because it gives you a chance to see what is currently going on in the individual departments. The atmosphere was also very relaxed and there was time to talk to the colleagues present. During the dinner, there was a seating chart so that you also get to know new colleagues. I really enjoyed the evening, which is why I would like to take part in it again.

Dimi: Definitely, especially because you get to talk to people you haven't seen or spoken to in a while, and because you also want to see what has happened in the last few months and what plans are coming up.

Hanan Yes, I would gladly go there once more. The evening was a lot of fun.