Communication Can Deepen: What You Learned at IABC World Conference 2023
Reflecting on knowledge-filled days spent at the IABC World Conference 2023, communication professionals are brimming with valuable takeaways and a renewed sense of purpose. Here’s a glimpse into key insights shared by conference attendees and the ways in which they have translated into action, amplifying the ways in which “Communication Can Deepen.”
The Power of Clarity and Communication
Attendee Johnathon Briggs’ a-ha moment came from the session “Change Their Minds: Understanding How People Think to Create Comms that Actually Work.” The realization that “clarity is kindness” resonated deeply with him.
This insight shared by speaker Melanie Loy highlighted the significance of delivering clear and concise messages. As Loy noted, “The more certainty we can give people, the sooner we can bring them along.” Now armed with best practices for change communication strategies, Briggs is eager to create impactful communications that resonate with a multitude of people.
In a similar vein, the choice of our words carries significance and communicators possess immense power. Heilo Fred Garcia's session, "The Danger of Disinformation," underscored this fact. From this session, attendee Ayllie White shared on LinkedIn a quote from Garcia that stood out most to her, "Communications has power, and with that power comes responsibility." She recognized the importance of employing this power to authentically reveal the truth, educate, engage and connect people, while exercising caution. Alternately, neglecting this responsibility leads to facing the consequences.
The Influence of AI
The panel discussion on "Generative Artificial Intelligence: The Communicator's New Best Friend?" caught Briggs' attention as well. Panelist Martin Waxman's remark that "AI won't replace humans but will most likely reshape job roles" inspired Briggs to explore integrating his hobby of generative AI into his professional work. Recognizing the immense potential of AI technologies, Briggs will leverage them to enhance his communication strategies as his organization develops AI principles for communication.
IABC Fellow Russell Grossman shared a similar perspective, viewing AI as more of an opportunity than a threat. He emphasized that while AI can be efficient, it lacks qualities such as listening, observing, intuiting and curiosity — qualities essential for effective communication. Grossman cautioned that engaging with AI is key to preventing it from replacing human communicators; it’s the next step.
The Global Connection
IABC's hallmark of connecting communication professionals from across the globe was celebrated fervently at World Conference 2023 and across social channels including LinkedIn. Review some of the highlights below from attendees:
The conference served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, leaving attendees equipped with new insights, expanded networks and a heightened dedication to advancing the field of communication.
If you missed the conference this year, don’t worry. We look forward to seeing you next year in Chicago for World Conference 2024!
In the meantime, catch up on all the highlights and takeaways from World Conference 2023 by exploring the #IABC23 hashtag on LinkedIn and reading more content from conference speakers here on Catalyst.