Why bother with security conferences?

I'm reflecting on our time at #gsx2019 last week. It was our fourth venture at the ASIS International exhibition and conference, and every year has been different from the last. 

This year, a key focus was collaboration. Collaboration between sectors, organisations, departments and industries. In a world where technology is at its peak, with tools to instantly communicate at our fingertips, the environment to collaborate has never been more available.

So, what stops us? Why is the concept of convergence still just a concept to some? 

I believe that for many people, the opportunity to collaborate with peers and others doesn't present itself too easily. Personal agendas, being vulnerable, being unable to commit to events, not knowing how to start a conversation with a stranger, not believing in the possibility that there is value in such interaction... all plausible reasons why people to avoid these situations.

That is what makes events like GSX so productive; it's a chance to really make connections and build relationships with just the right people who can support and develop shared goals. Some call that networking - I believe it's just making human contact and maintaining it!

The way that the networking events at GSX are designed is to be as informal as possible whilst remaining accessible and valuable to all. We saw genuinely positive results from the several events we attended, and it was a pleasure to be a part of. ARC Training has enjoyed a great reputation over the years, especially in parts of Africa, and it's always a joy to see the logo spotted by learners who trained with us earlier in their career. Sometimes, it just takes that glimpse of recognition to open up a conversation which could lead anywhere.

We are just about ready to pick up with the conversations we had last week with people from all over the world, and hopefully will be collaborating on their innovative training and consultancy requirements. 

We learn from our clients just as much as we teach their teams, and it's this cycle that keeps us energised and motivated.

• Sarah Hayward-Turton