My first I.C.E. Exchange is in the books, and I couldn't be more excited to start my work week following up with all the wonderful people I met! The I.C.E. Exchange, dedicated to credentialing professionals, was an eye-opening experience. Here are my key takeaways from this event:
💼The People and Their Passion
The people involved in the credentialing industry are truly remarkable. I was struck by their friendliness and eagerness to share their insights. Conversations with fellow attendees shed light on the diverse roles within credentialing, what they love about their organizations and roles, as well as the challenges they face. It was also fascinating to learn how many individuals found their way into the credentialing world, each with a unique story.
🍷The First Time Attendee Session: A Pleasant Surprise
As a seasoned trade show exhibitor, I was initially skeptical about the "First Time Attendee Session" on the conference agenda. However, I was proven wrong. This session was a heartwarming reminder that, no matter where you are in your career, you can be a newbie, and that's perfectly fine. I had the privilege of meeting several of the wonderful people I mentioned earlier during this engaging and classy event.
🚀Credentialing in the Age of the Pandemic
Like many other industries, credentialing faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic. What stood out from my discussions with industry professionals was the critical role that testing and exam delivery played during both the pandemic and its aftermath. Many organizations had to pivot significantly from their standard operations, and all had to emphasize testing and exam delivery more than ever before. In the post-pandemic world, leaders had to decide whether to return to their pre-pandemic practices, maintain the current situation, or explore a combination of approaches.
Credentialing bodies are now turning their attention to other areas of their business that may have been neglected or put on maintenance mode. Many individuals who visited our ROC-P booth expressed their need to make a change from systems that weren't working efficiently. Their focus is on reducing administrative burdens and enhancing the user experience for participants. They recognize that these improvements are essential to retain their dedicated staff and to expand their certification numbers.
⛰️Colorado Springs: A Picturesque Setting
While I was occupied in the conference, it was hard to be inside with the breathtaking beauty of Colorado Springs in October. It felt almost sinful to be indoors when nature's grandeur was just outside. I doubt anyone would argue with me on this one!
The I.C.E. Exchange provided me with a deeper understanding of the world of credentialing, an industry filled with passionate professionals eager to improve their practices and adapt to the changing landscape. It also highlighted the need for innovation and improvements in administrative processes and user experiences. Finally, the stunning backdrop of Colorado Springs served as a constant reminder that sometimes, even in the midst of a productive conference, it's important to take a moment to appreciate the world outside.
I look forward to integrating these insights into my work and further engaging with the incredible people I met at the conference. Conferences like the I.C.E. Exchange are invaluable for professional growth, and I can't wait for the next one!
This post originally appeared on the ROC-P LinkedIn page. Follow us here!