In May, I had the privilege of attending ASQ’s World Conference on Quality and Improvement (WCQI), in Denver, Colorado. What I thought would be a technical conference was actually a massively disguised networking event! Not only was it a remarkable educational conference with fantastic keynotes, numerous breakout sessions, and an expansive exhibit hall, but also it provided near nonstop networking.

Throughout the conference ASQ made it abundantly clear that it is a community for quality professionals. Over four days, ASQ continuously demonstrated how it is a community of inclusivity and belonging. Its flagship conference, WCQI, has been brilliantly designed to drive attendees to connect. I can attest that my many connections foster a sense of belonging.

The conference kicked off on Sunday evening in a spectacular way: a huge reception in the exhibit hall that included complimentary beverages and heavy hors d’oeuvres (more than enough for one’s dinner). The hall was filled with a tremendous amount of energy as it provided the opportunity to meet other attendees, reconnect with past acquaintances, and visit with numerous exhibitors and ASQ staff. I enjoyed a couple of beers, ate my fair share of food (there were no lines!) and shook innumerable hands during the short two hours allotted. WCQI lived up to its title of “World Conference” because it attracted people from over 30 countries. I personally was able to interact with people from Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Germany, Finland, South Africa, India, and Australia.

Networking opportunities continued throughout the conference. “Morning Coffee” was more than just filling one’s cup for coffee as the stations provided a casual atmosphere to have a conversation. Lunch was provided on Monday and Tuesday in a dining area adjacent to the exhibit hall. Seating at the circular tables allowed attendees to mix and mingle while sharing a meal. Besides sharing where they were from and who they worked for, common topics of conversation were the morning keynote address, which exhibitors were providing the best swag, and the shared experience of how friendly the conference attendees were. I was able to develop new friendships which eventually lead to going to nearby restaurants with people I had just met. Hopefully these newfound friendships will be renewed at future events.

WQCI offered interactive workshops, so personal barriers are quickly broken down. Most of the conference sessions I attended began by introducing yourself to the people seated around you or by simply exchanging a quick high five. New this year at WCQI was Braindate; these short, informal, facilitated networking sessions brought people, both face-to-face and online, together as they discuss common topics. Braindate forms inclusive communities where participants feel valued and reinforce ASQ’s drive to create a sense of belonging.

WCQI’s Tuesday night reception featured a large variety of food stations and more complimentary drinks (again, no lines!). This reception appeared to attract most conference attendees thus proving yet another chance to mingle in a social atmosphere. Music filled the hall and numerous members enjoyed gyrating on the dance floor. While my two left feet prevent me from dancing, I did enjoy spending time on the outdoor balcony warming myself by the firepit with some other “campers.” There is something about a nice fire that draws people together and sparks conversation. Networking was even achieved at the s’mores dessert station; attendees shared best practices as they roasted their marshmallows and assembled their confectionary delights!

I am an introvert by nature so most often I need to be pushed into interactions with people I am not familiar with, however WCQI’s inclusive format pulled me into its community. I left WCQI with many new relationships, LinkedIn connections and business cards, allowing me to tap into a wider pool of expertise.

Reasons for attending a conference vary; some people are looking to advance their knowledge, others to earn CEU’s to maintain their certifications, some seek to connect with exhibitors to research the latest technology or find a solution to a current challenge. While I was aware that conferences provide the chance to network, what I witnessed first-hand at WCQI was far different from my expectations. After WCQI ended on Wednesday, I walked away having completed what I sought to achieve but I also left truly impressed and eternally grateful for being included into a community of belonging.