The third edition of The Power of Communication once again fulfilled, and exceeded, all expectations. The “Secret Expert Experience” concept, which kept the audience in suspense until the very beginning, once again demonstrated how powerful an experience can be when the focus is placed not on the name, but on the message.
The secret expert guest of the evening was Ivan Maljevac, manager of the Cantilly Garden restaurant in Samobor, known for its blend of tradition, contemporary gastronomy, and collaboration with local family farms (OPGs) and sustainable practices.
In his appearance, Maljevac emphasized that personalized, warm, and authentic communication is the key to building successful relationships with guests, especially in a country where tourism is a cornerstone of the economy. He also stressed that exceptional service cannot rely solely on manuals and procedures. “You can train an employee in techniques and standards, but you cannot teach someone innate tact, a sense for people, and hospitality. That is what separates good service from excellent service,” he said.
He spoke about the importance of continuous employee training, creating a culture of service, and understanding that communication, both verbal and nonverbal, is crucial in the everyday work of hospitality professionals, adding that a guest remembers the impression and emotion first, and only then the food, interior, or prices.
A concept that removes expectations and enhances the experience
The organizer and author of the project, communication trainer Saša Tenodi, designed a format that encourages presence and openness among participants: no announcements, no names, no expectations. “When you don’t know who’s coming, you stop waiting for the name and start listening to the message. In that uncertainty, we create space for what communication truly is: presence and connection,” Tenodi said.
Tenodi, a professor of social pedagogy and NLP trainer with nearly 20 years of experience, is known for an approach that blends psychology, nonverbal communication, and personal development. His workshops are based on the idea that communication is not only what we say, but also how we show up: our posture, energy, and tone.
The event began at 7 PM with a welcome drink and a view of Zagreb from the 14th floor of the Sky Office Center. After a brief introduction and the reveal of the secret guest, attendees experienced a special sensory pairing of wine and flavors, created in collaboration with Cantilly Samobor and Štampar Winery, with Coca-Cola and Angeluš Craft Brewery as refreshment partners. The evening concluded with the MK Party, socializing, music, and an opportunity to exchange ideas and make new connections.
