**New Relic’s Global Head of Alliances Talks Cats, First Impressions, and the Future of AI**
Jon Lingard, the global head of alliances and channels at New Relic, has a unique alarm clock: his cat. But when we spoke with Lingard, it was clear that his morning routine was just a small part of a larger story about the importance of being present and making a good first impression.
**From Cats to Channel Growth**
As the global head of alliances and channels at New Relic, Lingard is responsible for growing the company’s net revenue retention through a loyal network of channel and alliance partners. It’s a big job, but Lingard has a no-nonsense approach to getting things done. His cat may serve as his alarm clock, but it’s clear that Lingard is all business – even if that means wearing a suit to the office (and, yes, having a cat-themed tie to match).
According to Lingard, his role is all about building relationships and growing revenue – and it’s an area where AI is playing an increasingly important role. “AI is allowing us to understand our customers better, to predict their needs, and to offer more personalized experiences,” he explains. “But it’s also about being present and making a good first impression. In a world where so much of our communication is automated, it’s more important than ever to remember that humans are still at the heart of every interaction.”
**The Human Touch in a Digital World**
Lingard’s emphasis on the importance of being present and making a good first impression is a timely one, especially in a world where so much of our communication is automated. But it’s also a reminder that, even as AI becomes more prevalent in our lives, the human touch is still essential for building trust and creating real connections.
For New Relic, this means using AI to augment human interactions, rather than replace them. By analyzing data and using machine learning to identify trends and patterns, the company is able to offer more personalized experiences and better support to its customers – and to its partners. But it’s also about using AI to empower humans, rather than replace them. “We’re not looking to automate every interaction,” Lingard says. “We’re looking to make our partners more effective and more productive, and to give them the tools they need to succeed.”
**What this means**: As AI becomes more prevalent in our lives, it’s time to remember the importance of being present and making a good first impression. By using AI to augment human interactions, rather than replace them, companies like New Relic are creating more personalized experiences and building stronger relationships with their customers and partners.
