Conference Takeaways and 2017 Trends QRCA Southeastern Chapter Members

Posted on April 10, 2017

A major draw to the annual QRCA Conference is the ability to network with other like-minded quallies. It gives us new ideas, peace of mind, and comfort knowing we have support from those near and far. Southeast Chapter member Rebecca Bryant emphasized what many of us thought, saying, “For me, the biggest takeaway from the conference is a total confirmation of the tremendous network of peers QRCA provides.” Southeast member and chair of the 2017 Annual Conference Kate Wagenlander Watson added, “Giant Jenga is always a good time!”

The first Southeast Chapter meeting of 2017, held in Los Angeles at the conference, was a great example of how the organization can bring members together to discuss movements in our industry. Because we could not all attend each breakout session, we came together to brainstorm some of the trends we heard for 2017 from speakers across the three days. Many thanks to the following chapter members and others who contributed thoughts:

  • Colleen Welsh-Allen
  • Joy Steinberg
  • Grace Bottcher
  • Jonathan Schneider
  • Laurie Butler
  • Kate Wagenlander Watson

Designing

  • Focus on simplicity, frequency, and repetition to stay on the pulse of reality.

Recruiting

  • Difficult recruits require us to personally explore creative outlets.
  • A recruiting partner who goes above and beyond is valued.

Moderating

  • How we ask questions, and in what order, affects responses.
  • Asking leading questions is still a major concern for clients.
  • How well are we listening and interpreting respondent opinions?
    • The opposite of listening isn’t talking, it’s waiting.
    • Not speaking — and long pauses — are also part of the answer.
    • Everyone has a story to tell; sometimes our role is to simply practice the exercise of listening.
    • Listen through different lenses and put ourselves in others’ shoes.
    • Don’t be so focused on answering your question that you miss what you find and learn. Challenge yourself and clients to look at different things, rather than simply looking for answers.
    • Memory can be misleading.

Deliverables

  • Reports are getting more visual, strategic, and story-lined.
  • Videos are becoming commonplace.
    • Audio may still allow greater honesty as consumers don’t have to create an “image” for the camera.

Technology

  • Video editing and housing platforms are trending.
  • Cyber security is of major concern for both clients and moderators.
  • Innovation is here to stay, but utilizing it correctly is key.
    • Neuroscience techniques are still new and evolving. The subconscious alone is not the sole technique for a complete image.

*Editor’s Note: This piece was originally published in QRCA Connections and can be found here.