The Extended Peak: Reimagining Holiday Season CX
On this episode of Human Centered, host Nick Brunker, Group Director of Experience Strategy at VML, dives into the evolving landscape of holiday shopping just as Black Friday approaches. Joined by Michelle Baumann, VML's Chief Strategy Officer, they explore how brands are navigating what promises to be the most channel-diverse and technologically advanced shopping season yet.
Discover strategies for handling compressed commerce, leveraging social platforms for enhanced customer engagement, and maintaining service quality during high-volume periods. Michelle shares insights from VML's "Power of Peak" report, which highlights the transformation from a single-day shopping event to an extended season that reshapes customer expectations and behaviors.
Tune in to learn about managing AI-powered interactions, creating seamless omnichannel experiences, and optimizing mobile shopping. Whether you're a CX professional or a curious consumer, this episode offers valuable takeaways for delivering exceptional experiences during retail's most demanding season.
🔗 Links & Resources:
🔗 Links & Resources:
- Power of Peak Report
- Connect with Nick on X @nickbrunker
- Email us at humancentered@vml.com
Creators and Guests
Host
Nick Brunker
Nick is a Forrester CX-Certified professional with a versatile portfolio including more than a decade of discipline in human-centered experience strategy, insight-based digital transformation, eCommerce & omnichannel planning. As part of VMLY&R’s CX practice, Nick is responsible for cultivating a deep understanding of customer motivations and business needs to deliver best-in-class experiences for our clients – and, as importantly, the people they serve. He collaborates with senior leaders to drive strategic alignment, push thinking into action, and helps architect CX measurement frameworks to achieve customer and business objectives. Additionally, he is actively expanding the agency’s industry footprint through thought leadership and IP development. During his career, Nick has partnered with various Fortune 500 clients across numerous categories, including Ford Motor Company, Google, General Mills, Fifth Third Bank, and Southwest Airlines, among others. He and his wife, Abbey, reside in Cincinnati, Ohio, with their children Nolan, Emma & Ainsley, and their ten-year-old pup, Bailey.
